Quote Originally Posted by Lgk
As for me, I'd rather support separatism in some distant corner of already bloated "empire" to establish small, yet healthy and sturdy state (something like Sertorius tried to achieve). Much better than waste your life serving power-mad megalomaniacs (Caesar and the like) or corrupt kleptocrats (the Senate).

But of course, i have no sentiments about gloria romanorum and stuff like this, things might look different for brainwashed roman patriot or typical spoiled parasite "citizen" of late republic era.
Yep the slow boat to Cherson might be an attractive option. Bribe the local tyrant, cut a deal with the Sarmatian warlord for a little protection, spend the rest of your life writing your autobiography (including self glorifying furphy's like "I coulda saved the Republic but...")

Maybe even risk the Tian Shan and catch the silk road express to Han China. I have read foreign travellers were astounded at imperial China's tranquility: more often than not people could walk the streets and even the countryside without carrying weapons. It'd only be worthwhile if you could get away with enough stolen public funds of course, I wouldn't fancy being at the bottom of the pile in any ancient society, and i think Chinese peasants were as oppressed as any.

I suppose my own political leanings tend to pragmatism. I think I would have been sold on the argument that Octavius was the best chance for peace, and he allowed a pretence of politcal life that gave people hope for a return to free political life. Geez he played it well, made himself front man for the senate, shafted them with the deal with Anthony to defeat the assassins, the blackening of Antony's name, he was a pro. I reckon he was a skilled politician, too good for most enemies in the powerplay, and hoodwinked a lot smarter guys than me.