History of Carthage must burn and why important rhetoric and philosophy

Haha! End every speech in Senate, regardless of the topic—

Carthago delenda est!

Anti hannibal

Rhetoric is Key.

…

—Exploring the Origins and Impact of Cato the Elder’s Famous Phrase—

Introduction

The phrase “Carthago delenda est” (“Carthage must be destroyed”) is one of the most famous utterances from ancient Rome, attributed to the statesman Cato the Elder. This declaration played a pivotal role in the events leading up to the Third Punic War and the ultimate destruction of Carthage in 146 BCE. Beyond its historical context, the phrase has become a significant example in the study of rhetoric and philosophy, illustrating the power of persistent persuasion and the ethical considerations of such an uncompromising stance.

Historical Context

1. The Punic Wars: The Punic Wars were a series of three conflicts between Rome and Carthage from 264 to 146 BCE. These wars were primarily over control of the Mediterranean trade routes and regional dominance.

2. Carthage and Rome: Carthage was a powerful city-state located in present-day Tunisia. By the end of the Second Punic War, Rome had emerged victorious but remained wary of Carthage’s potential resurgence.

3. Cato the Elder: Marcus Porcius Cato, known as Cato the Elder, was a Roman senator and historian known for his conservatism and advocacy of traditional Roman values.

“Carthago delenda est” and Cato’s Rhetoric

1. Repetition for Emphasis: Cato the Elder ended every speech in the Senate, regardless of the topic, with the phrase “Carthago delenda est.” This relentless repetition served to keep the issue of Carthage at the forefront of Roman political discourse.

2. Rhetorical Strategy: By constantly repeating the phrase, Cato employed a rhetorical technique that underscores the power of persistence in persuasion. It created a sense of urgency and inevitability about the need to address the “Carthaginian question.”

3. Emotional Appeal: Cato tapped into the collective fears and anxieties of the Roman people, who remembered the devastation brought by Hannibal during the Second Punic War.

Philosophical Implications

1. Moral Absolutism vs. Pragmatism: Cato’s unwavering stance raises questions about moral absolutism. Was the destruction of Carthage a justifiable act of preemptive self-defense or an immoral act of aggression?

2. The Ethics of Persuasion: The phrase exemplifies how rhetoric can be used to shape public opinion and policy, prompting reflections on the ethical responsibilities of orators and leaders.

3. Imperialism and Its Consequences: The destruction of Carthage symbolizes the aggressive expansion of Rome, prompting philosophical debates about the justifications and ramifications of imperialism.

Impact on Rhetoric

1. Legacy in Oratory: “Carthago delenda est” has become a classic example of effective rhetoric, studied for its demonstration of how repetition and emotional appeal can influence an audience.

2. Strategic Communication: The phrase illustrates the importance of consistency in messaging when attempting to persuade others or bring about political change.

3. Modern Usage: The expression is often referenced in political discourse to denote an unwavering commitment to a cause or the perceived necessity of decisive action against a threat.

Conclusion

The historical call of “Carthago delenda est” by Cato the Elder is more than a mere footnote in Roman history; it is a profound example of the power of rhetoric and its ability to shape events. The phrase’s significance extends into philosophical discussions about morality, persuasion, and the use of power. It serves as a timeless reminder of how words can influence destinies, both of cities and of civilizations.

References

• Polybius, Histories

• Plutarch, Life of Cato the Elder

• Livy, Ab Urbe Condita

• Cicero, De Senectute

• Scholarly analyses on Roman rhetoric and philosophy