Cincinnatus and the Citizen-Servant Ideal: The Roman Legend's Life, Times, and Legacy

by Michael J. Hillyard

A compilation of the recorded life, times, and influence of a Roman legend, Cincinnatus and the Citizen-Servant Ideal captures the essence of human virtue as it was embodied in the Roman Republic’s earliest days. Describing Cincinnatus’s recorded life and times, Hillyard traces the legend’s major interpretations from its origin amidst early Roman culture through contemporary times. In its impact on some of the world’s leading thinkers and leaders, such as Livy, George Washington, Henry Knox, Harry Truman, and others, the Cincinnatus legend is described in the many interesting forms it has taken over two millennia. Carried throughout the narrative is the timeless nature of the Cincinnatus ideal—the central issues of the role of citizen and leader in society.

Genres: History, Biography

196 pages, Paperback

First published August 16, 2001

Reviews

[Gustavo · Rating 3 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed Hillyard's Cincinnatus and the Citizen-Servant Ideal; I found it well written, clear and concise (the text is only about 168 pages long). I guess people will like it if they, like me, are interested either in the history of Ancient Rome (particularly the beginnings of the Republic), or on the topic of political leadership (especially its relation with morality and rectitude). Cincinnatus was the quintessential virtuous leader, an inspiration to all those who see politics and power not as a tool for self-aggrandizement, but rather of service and self-sacrifice for the good of the community. After reading Hillyard's work one does finish with a good and better understanding of Cincinnatus the man, his time and legacy.

The book as such is not a biography (at least not all of it). It is broadly divided into three parts: the first outlines the historical context in which Cincinnatus lived, the second part does give an account of Cincinnatus' life (a little bit too short from what I expected), and the third ponders on his legacy, especially in American history (how he inspired leaders like George Washington, Truman, and U.S. senator Lucius Quintus Cincinnatus Lamar, just to name a few).

One of the interesting things emphasized by Hillyard is that Cincinnatus was a conservative, who upheld the traditional privileges of the Roman aristocracy (the Patricians) against the Plebeians (who struggled instead for more political representation, and the substitution of custom and tradition for the rule of law). So in that sense, in our eyes (where liberal ideals tend to dominate), he would seem a little bit politically incorrect.

All in all it's a good read; recommended.

[Floyd Jr. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Originally this book was read solely to learn about Cincinnatus himself. Little did I know, however, that I would be pleasantly surprised with the "Citizen-Servant Ideal" portion of the book. About half the book discusses Cincinnatus, but the other half discusses the legacy Cincinnatus and his story has left on American society. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who is concerned about the lack of heroes in our current American society. Mr. Hillyard has poignant and astute observations that can be used by all to imitate the legend of Cincinnatus. Hard work, duty without expectation of reward, and a love of family won't make everyone a Cincinnatus, but it will make them a Cincinnati.

[Todd Haines · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good info and history

Good background and history. It did seem to get too redundant in the middle of the book. I'm unsure the connection was 100% made but maybe 80% .

[Dr. Byron Ernest]

Being a Servant Leader

This book provides great lessons on how to truly be a selfless servant leader. Every leader should read this book.