Aut Caesar aut nihil - the phrase that translates to "Caesar or nothing" in English, is a Latin phrase that has made its way into everyday vernacular. Its roots go back to ancient Rome, where the Roman Empire was at the height of its power.
The phrase gained renewed attention during the Renaissance, thanks to the notorious Cesare Borgia, son of Pope Alexander VI. Borgia was known for his ruthless ambition and desire for power, and "aut Caesar aut nihil" was his personal motto. It's easy to see why; it captures the essence of Borgia's philosophy perfectly.
But what does the phrase really mean? On a surface level, it seems pretty straightforward - either you become the emperor, or you're nothing. But when you dig deeper, you realize that it's a call to action. It's a reminder that in order to succeed, you must strive for greatness, and accept nothing less.
In a way, "aut Caesar aut nihil" is a reflection of human nature. We all want to achieve something great in our lives, to be remembered for our accomplishments. And to do that, we must be willing to work hard, to take risks, and to never settle for mediocrity.
Today, the phrase is still in use, though it's not as common as it once was. It's often used to express the idea of "all or nothing", or the idea that you must give everything you have in order to achieve your goals. And while the phrase is associated with the ruthless ambition of Cesare Borgia, it has taken on a life of its own, and has become a symbol of determination and perseverance.
In conclusion, "aut Caesar aut nihil" is a powerful phrase that has stood the test of time. Whether you're striving for personal greatness or working towards a larger goal, it's a reminder that anything is possible if you're willing to put in the effort.
Suggested Reading:
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Burckhardt, Jacob. The Civilization of the Renaissance in Italy. Penguin Books, 1990.
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Gregorovius, Ferdinand. The History of Rome in the Middle Ages. George Bell & Sons, 1896.
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Vasari, Giorgio. Lives of the Most Eminent Painters, Sculptors, and Architects. Penguin Classics, 1987.