My Dear Hamilton

Roman mythology is a motif illustrating the theme of History and Legacy. Hamilton makes many references to Roman mythology beginning with his first meetings with Eliza. He compares himself to Phaeton, whom he describes as “a figure of legend. The bastard of the Greek sun god. He died trying to prove his parentage by driving his father’s chariot, and set the world aflame” (111). He says he feels a connection to the quote about Phaeton that reads “And though greatly he failed, more greatly he dared” (111). Hamilton sees himself in legends about those whose ambition propelled them to greatness but ultimately caused their downfall, foreshadowing his rise and fall. Hamilton educates himself about Roman history and mythology and wants Eliza to do the same, thinking Americans should strive toward Rome’s greatness as they build their new nation. He compares people he admires to Roman figures, saying that Washington “like the Roman hero of old, pursues a strategy of evading and wearing down the enemy” (97). However, Hamilton also compares himself to less noble Roman figures like the simple farmer Dentatus. Hamilton’s references to Roman mythology highlight his self-awareness and sometimes his self-depreciation, highlighting the humanity behind his ambitions. Classical education was a sign of wealth and good breeding at the time, and Hamilton’s self-education on Roman history and mythology shows his desire to raise his station and leave a noble legacy for his children.