Dignitas (Roman Concept) - Personal Significance

Personal Significance

The cultivation of dignitas in ancient Rome was extremely personal. Men of all classes, most particularly noblemen of consular families, were highly protective and zealous of this asset. This is because every man who took on a higher political office during the Roman Republic considered dignitas as comprising much more than just his dignity. It referred to his "good name" (his past and present reputation, achievement, standing, and honor). Most politicians were prepared to kill, commit suicide (as in a famous case of Marcus Antonius), or go into exile in order to preserve their dignitas.