Appius knew eventually his time to preach the truth would come but he had no idea how soon. It had been nearly a year since Caesar defeated the Pompeians in Spain and Appius’ life had taken a dramatic turn. He was no longer a slave and was enjoying the full rights of Roman citizenship as a freedman. But still he found himself questioning the society in which he was granted higher-class status. As he sat in his chambers he could hear the hustle and bustle of the Roman Forum outside. Everyday citizens and slaves alike were carrying out their daily tasks of Roman life many without even questioning the society in which they lived.
Did they not understand the extent of the injustices being committed around them? As Atticus pondered over the potential consequences of his forthcoming actions he remembered the story of Spartacus. It was a story he knew all too well and it was one that he wished ended differently. Appius had no desire to end up dead like Spartacus but their goals and vision were the same. Although he knew the repercussions, Appius could no longer remain silent.
The weight of this philosophical dilemma had bore down on Atticus’ moral fiber for too long and he could no longer remain passive. He stood up and in preparing to leave took a fleeting glance out of his window. He could see the Tiber River glistening in the afternoon sun and the entirety of Rome was sprawled out before his very eyes. He knew at that moment that it was his duty, and perhaps it was the gods who instilled it within him, to enlighten the citizens of Rome about their severely misguided perceptions of roman societal structure.
He made his way to the Roman Forum winding his way through the city streets lost in a deep trance of thought. As he entered the forum he saw the rostra upon which so many before him had spoken. The forum was still fairly busy as Atticus walked up the fabled steps of the rostra and with a deep breath he began to speak, “Romans! Gather round and listen to the knowledge I wish to bestow upon you. As you continue to live day-by-day our society continually perpetuates a cycle of never ending marginalization. Caesar and the senate must acknowledge those individuals that have facilitated the rise of this great city. Slaves have carried the weight of this republic upon their backs and deserve the rights enjoyed by freemen!”
