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Rome in 1860

Written by Edward Dicey

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Rome (Italy)

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About this book

"Rome in 1860" by Edward Dicey is a historical account written in the mid-19th century. The work provides a detailed exploration of contemporary life in Rome, focusing on the socio-political and cultural landscape of the city during a period marked by the influence of the Papal system. Dicey seeks to capture the essence of Rome as a living city, rich in history yet struggling under the weight of its ecclesiastical governance, delving into the lives of its inhabitants, the prevailing poverty, and the pervasive presence of clergy. The opening of the work introduces readers to the author's personal reflections about Rome, as he attempts to describe the city's current state while putting aside its historical grandeur. He portrays the journey into Rome as one filled with desolation, depicting a landscape that feels lifeless and mundane, populated by weary peasants and scattered ruins. As the author explores the streets, he emphasizes the somber atmosphere, filled with beggars and priests, and hints at a city consumed by its own past while grappling with the corruption and stagnation imposed by the Papal regime. This nuanced depiction sets the stage for a critical examination of the social fabric and governmental structure of Rome in the period leading up to significant change.

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Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in Rome in 1860, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 8 hours
  • intermediate
  • somber
  • critical
  • observational

Edward Dicey's "Rome in 1860" offers a poignant historical account of Rome, moving beyond its ancient grandeur to capture the city's contemporary socio-political and cultural realities under Papal rule. Dicey meticulously details the pervasive poverty, the omnipresent clergy, and the general stagnation affecting the lives of its inhabitants. Through personal reflections and keen observations, the author presents Rome as a city struggling under the weight of ecclesiastical governance, characterized by a somber atmosphere and a sense of desolation. The work serves as a critical examination of the Roman social fabric and governmental structure, providing insight into a pivotal moment before significant political upheaval. It highlights the stark contrast between Rome's historical legacy and its challenging present.

“The journey into Rome itself seemed a fitting prelude to the city's current state: a landscape of desolation, hinting at a life withered by time and neglect.”

Key themes

Socio-political Stagnation and Corruption
This theme explores how the Papal system's governance led to a lack of progress, economic hardship, and moral decay in Rome. Dicey highlights the inefficiencies and perceived corruption of the ecclesiastical administration as a primary cause for the city's struggles, contrasting it sharply with its glorious past.
The Weight of History vs. Contemporary Reality
Dicey deliberately contrasts Rome's illustrious historical grandeur with its grim contemporary state. The book explores how the city's past, while magnificent, seems to overshadow and perhaps even hinder its present, contributing to a sense of melancholic decay rather than inspiring progress. This theme questions whether a city can truly thrive when burdened by its own monumental history.
The Impact of Ecclesiastical Governance
Central to Dicey's analysis is the pervasive and often detrimental influence of the Papal system on every aspect of Roman life. The book critically examines how religious authority, when entwined with political power, can lead to stagnation, social control, and a lack of civil liberties, ultimately hindering the city's progress.

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How does Dicey's deliberate attempt to set aside Rome's historical grandeur influence his perception of the city?

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