Devotio - the chilling final resort of ancient Romans at war

[Gordopolis]

What more can a person give to a cause, than their very existence? This is the essence of the ancient Roman oath of 'Devotio' - the word from which the modern term 'devotion' is derived.

Read my blog that explores this chilling final resort of ancient Romans at war:

https://www.gordondoherty.co.uk/writeblog/the-greatest-sacrifice?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBEwakRWTXR2ek5uSTJFYVlvNQEeNZVGENCkHeYmyzIBbxt1NxTONyMw2DhxnpSQRnlx4_kGRYFxh1vhtdIkKyM_aem_eRglGEnEcW7QxP-VhbvZDw

[guy]

On 4/24/2025 at 8:32 AM, Gordopolis said:

What more can a person give to a cause, than their very existence? This is the essence of the ancient Roman oath of 'Devotio' - the word from which the modern term 'devotion' is derived.

Interesting read. Is this act of "Devotio" a matter of perspective? If a general knowingly leads a futile charge against the enemy, would that be considered an act of "Devotio"?

I suppose this would be better than being executed for incompetence.
 

The Carthaginians famously crucified their generals who failed. Carthage had a reputation for holding its military leaders accountable, sometimes to extreme measures. One notable example is Hanno, executed after his failure during the Mercenary War. Another is Hasdrubal, who faced execution following a disastrous campaign in Sicily during the First Punic War.

More recently, British Admiral Byng was executed. Tasked with relieving a besieged British garrison at Minorca during the Seven Years' War, his fleet engaged the French but suffered significant damage. Byng decided to retreat to Gibraltar to repair his ships, leaving Minorca to fall to the French. This decision sparked outrage in Britain, and Byng was court-martialed for failing to "do his utmost" to prevent the loss of Minorca. He was sentenced to death and executed by firing squad on March 14, 1757.

Edited 12 hours ago by guy