They extolled the beauties of poverty and humility and meekness. These were not exactly the virtues which had made Rome the mistress of the world.
Not at all, Su.Ki. It's interesting how we have all been conditioned to conjure up images and associations when we see certain words.
The glories and debauchery of Rome! And mistress! And the Vatican! And for some, memories of homoerotic masters in Latin classes at school.
It must be so nice to be innocent (again) and to ask innocent questions here. Paradise (lost)!
It means the greatest power in the world. 'Mistress' is the feminine form of 'master', meaning 'boss'. When cities are personified, it is normal to use the feminine form.
Quite right, Ben. All she needs is high leather boots and a riding whip.
Sorry. Lowering the tone there.
MISTRESS and BOSS. WOW!
