revisionist history in socialist spain...

this summer i heard a talk on revisionist history and today at the ruinas romanas, Italica, i saw an interesting bit in action. the guide, born and raised sevillano, regaled us on the wonderful culture that was ancient rome. such a tolerant, caring culture (he pointed out) that while there was a universal religion, the imperial cult, all other religions were allowed and encouraged. open thinking and tolerance made way for every other faith (he gushed). even the universal religion--the imperial cult again--was similar, well, to honoring the state. requirements related to this religion were (here he brought it home to the unsuspecting americans) just like saying the pledge of allegiance. no difference. so where does nero fit in? you might as well ask. i have no idea. perhaps those of the Way were merely political rebels, in this lavish view of rome. he also noted (as we surveyed the remains of a public bath) the marvellous attention the romans paid to hygiene, as well as personal fitness. go figure.