“Rome Is No Longer in Rome”

“Rome is no longer in Rome, it is here where I am”. This quotation, attributed to Sertorius in the eponymous 17th-century tragedy by Pierre Corneille, aims to express the rebellious feelings of the exiled Roman, who was condemned by the Senate. ¹ It also illustrates a particular view of the character and spirit of the Eternal City. ² Sertorius’ words evoke Rome as a concept beyond the physical city, a transferable idea defined by power, language, culture and law that has influenced and shaped many modern states. ³