* The importance of virtue and its decline: Livy believed Rome's greatness stemmed from its early citizens' adherence to traditional Roman values like piety, discipline, self-sacrifice, and civic duty. He meticulously chronicles the gradual erosion of these virtues, ultimately leading to Rome's decline and the loss of its republican ideals. He uses this narrative to warn against moral decay and the dangers of ambition and corruption.
* The cyclical nature of empires: While celebrating Rome's triumphs, Livy also implicitly highlights the inherent instability and cyclical nature of power. The rise and fall of various figures and institutions throughout his history illustrate the ephemeral nature of human achievement and the inevitable decline of even the most powerful empires. This acts as a cautionary tale against hubris and overconfidence.
* The value of history as a teacher: Livy clearly intended his work to be instructive. By recounting past events, he believed readers could learn valuable lessons about leadership, governance, and the consequences of both good and bad decisions. He hoped his detailed narratives would serve as examples – both positive and negative – to emulate or avoid.
* Roman identity and patriotism: Though he wrote during the reign of Augustus, Livy subtly celebrated the Republic's achievements and implicitly contrasted them with the imperial era. His account, while not overtly rebellious, subtly encouraged a sense of Roman identity and pride in their past achievements, even while living under an empire.
It's important to note that Livy wasn't simply presenting a dry account of historical facts. His work is imbued with moral judgment and rhetorical skill, designed to evoke specific emotions and inspire particular conclusions in his readers. His aim wasn't just to inform, but to shape the moral and civic character of his audience.