One of my big research interests is concerned with the events and major transitions that occurred in the first century BC and first century AD. These changes fundamentally augmented the sense of Roman identity. Rome’s government, society, culture, and economy were transformed.

With this in perspective, I want to investigate how the ancient Romans perceived these changes. How did they view the main “actors” who brought about these changes?  First, however, how can we begin to answer these questions? Which authors and which works of contemporary literature can best help investigate this question? My research will answer these and many other questions.

Introduction: Researching Roman Biographical Literature

Part One (a): Who is Plutarch?