“First Freedom, and then Glory—when that fails, Wealth, vice, corruption—barbarism at last.” —Lord Byron, from “Childe Harold’s Pilgrimage,” c. 1812–1818

Question

In 3–5 sentences, explain how the lines from this poem applied to the decline and fall of the Roman Empire and the Han Dynasty. Use historical examples to justify your reasoning.

Answer 1

The lines from Lord Byron's poem can be applied to the decline and fall of the Roman Empire and the Han Dynasty in the following ways. First, both empires experienced a decline in their commitment to the ideals of freedom and their citizens' rights. In Rome, the shift towards autocracy under emperors like Nero and Caligula undermined the principles of liberty. Similarly, the Han Dynasty saw a rise in the power of eunuchs, corrupt officials who controlled the government, compromising freedom. Secondly, both empires witnessed a decline in their pursuit of glory and expansion. Rome faced military defeats and internal strife that distracted it from the pursuit of glory, while the Han Dynasty became fragmented and weak due to the power struggles between warlords. Lastly, both empires experienced a decline in moral values and a spread of corruption. Rome saw the rise of debauchery and immorality, such as the lavish and decadent parties organized by the ruling class. Similarly, the Han Dynasty suffered from extensive corruption, with officials engaging in bribery and nepotism. Ultimately, these factors led to the fall and eventual barbarism in both empires.