"That Rome was comparatively great and wealthy is certain"

Goldwin Smith, a kept in mind 19th-century historian and scholar, provides a concise however weighty commentary by mentioning, "That Rome was comparatively great and wealthy is certain". At face value, this quote highlights the indisputable historic prominence of Rome. To interpret and dive much deeper into this declaration, we need to consider both the context of Rome's success and the relativism implied by the term "relatively.".

Rome's achievement can be attributed to several aspects, including the expansive reach of the Roman Empire, which at its zenith enveloped large territories throughout Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East. This expansion helped with an unique mix of cultures, cultivating advancements in innovation, governance, arts, and architecture. The Roman system of roadways and aqueducts, together with huge structures like the Colosseum and the Pantheon, are withstanding testimonies to Roman ingenuity and aspiration.

Economically, Rome's wealth was bolstered by a complicated system of trade that connected the empire's diverse regions. This network not only guaranteed the flow of products such as grains from Egypt, spices from Asia, and rare-earth elements from different provinces, however it also helped with cultural and intellectual exchanges. Rome's currency and taxation systems even more highlighted its financial strength, contributing to civic and military expenditures that enhanced its supremacy and appeal.

Nevertheless, the term "relatively" invites readers to see Rome's success and wealth in context. This suggests a juxtaposition with other modern civilizations or perhaps with different epochs within Rome's own history. While Rome may have been great among its contemporaries, the idea of greatness is fluid and subjective, differing based upon the requirements utilized-- be they military, cultural, or economic.

In summary, Smith's statement encapsulates the formidable tradition of Rome while motivating a more comprehensive consideration of historic achievement. It prompts reflection on how civilizations achieve and are kept in mind for their power and wealth, and how these characteristics are measured relative to other entities across time.