Capitoline Hill

While ancient Rome achieved many awe-inspiring feats, it is also remembered for its controversial citizens—especially its leaders—who embraced unrestrained decadence. Their conduct was so outlandish that tales of their misbehavior still circulate today. If the ancient authors are to be believed, then gluttony, greed, treachery and violations of sexual mores permeated the later Roman Republic and the Roman Empire. Of course, ancient writers enjoyed exaggerating details and passing unsubstantiated rumors off as veritable facts. Regardless of their embellishments, as Rome’s might grew, well-placed Romans noticed unmistakable instances of moral depravity. Luckily for them, all hope was not lost because Rome boasted some worthwhile role models, at least those from much earlier in its history. One particular Roman stood above all