This depiction was another way for France to assert itself as the “rightful center of a new European empire,” (page 60). The canal’s advanced hydraulic engineering had deep Roman roots and was inspired by classical imagery (page 11). Engineers and the state alike were careful to ensure a plethora of classical symbolism was present in all ongoing engineering projects. But the vision of “New Rome” did not only apply to hydraulics and engineering, but many other schools of thought describing the relationship between man and nature. These references to Roman outlooks are present not only in Evelyn’s works, but with other pieces of the time as
This depiction was another way for France to assert itself as the “rightful center of a new European empire,” (page 60). The canal’s advanced hydraulic engineering had deep Roman roots and was inspired by classical imagery (page 11). Engineers and the state alike were careful to ensure a plethora of classical symbolism was present in all ongoing engineering projects. But the vision of “New Rome” did not only apply to hydraulics and engineering, but many other schools of thought describing the relationship between man and nature. These references to Roman outlooks are present not only in Evelyn’s works, but with other pieces of the time as