A compelling Greek-themed metaphor for the Canada-US relationship has captivated social media, drawing parallels to the ancient world’s power dynamics, specifically between Athens and Rome.
The intriguing comparison was first articulated by Francis Scarpaleggia, the newly minted Speaker of the House of Commons and a Liberal MP from Quebec.
In his acceptance speech, Scarpaleggia boldly declared the United States to be “modern Rome in terms of size and power.” He then championed Canada’s identity, stating, “We are Athens, in culture, values, and Democracy. That is how we should see ourselves, that is how we should be.”
The metaphor gained significant momentum when Mark Carney, in his inaugural address as Prime Minister, embraced the symbolism. After thanking voters and members of parliament, and personally congratulating Speaker Scarpaleggia, Carney reflected on his new role: ‘I have a lot to learn from the members of this great Parliament. I will make mistakes. I have no doubt that you will point them out to me, and rightly so, because this House has rules, it has traditions – and on them our Athenian Democracy is founded.’
Carney’s deliberate repetition of the Athens-Rome analogy served to underline Canada’s distinct path, subtly contrasting it with the expansionist tendencies often associated with the United States, particularly under Donald Trump.
“Yes, we are Athens, they are Rome,” he affirmed, directly echoing Scarpaleggia’s influential speech. The Prime Minister concluded with a stirring call to national pride: “We will win. We are in the Golden Age of Athens. Thank you, Mr. Speaker, you have my support.’”
This was a nod to history, said a user on X. Athens thrived on democratic ideals while Rome collapsed under imperial overreach. In a seemingly off the cuff remark, the PM framed Canada’s position in the battle between democracy and imperialism.
“There was also the bit where Rome conquered Greece and ruled it for a 1000 years but ok,” commented one user who received the following reply: “Point isn’t about war. It’s about democracy over imperialism. And the ideals.”
Another X user wrote: “Rome was greedy and corrupt. Athens aspired to reaching higher things and values.” And another remarked: “So nice to have a leader that can string words together and create a moment crafted from history and knowledge.”
“Ancient Greece is celebrated for its indelible contributions to philosophy, literature, art, architecture, mathematics, science, and politics. Greek thinkers and artists profoundly influenced the development of Western thought and culture. Rome merely copied Greece,” a commentator notes.
And, a final note from Horace, the leading Roman lyric poet during the time of Augustus.
“Greece, conquered Greece, her conqueror subdued, And Rome grew polished, who till then was rude.”
Related: Rome Conquered Greece, and Then Greece Conquered Rome
