Sulla was the Roman commander whose defence of his eastern command led to the first march of Roman legions against Rome itself.
Historical Significance
Sulla’s career connects the Social War, the Mithridatic command, the march on Rome, the proscriptions and the dictatorship. In Livarva he represents the paradox of restoration by force.
Command and Rivalry
Chapter V follows the moment when Sulla’s personal authority over his soldiers became stronger than the political order that had appointed him.