The conference will explore how Roman authors reflected and responded to the phenomenon of Roman expansionism, examining the ways in which key literary figures portrayed the growth of Roman power and its impact on both Roman and foreign societies. We will analyze how literature served both to glorify Roman achievements and to critique the costs of imperialism. Topics of discussion will include the representation of war and conquest, the portrayal of Rome’s enemies, and the ways in which Roman identity was shaped in relation to the expanding borders of the empire.