Final answer:
In ancient Rome, those judged to be of unusual virtue were sent to a voluntary exile in other towns as a refuge and harbor of safety from punishment. Banishment was seen as a refuge and harbinger of safety from punishment, rather than a punishment itself. People would choose to leave the city and abandon their rights of citizenship as a way to avoid imprisonment, execution, or disgrace.
Step-by-step explanation:
In ancient Rome, those who were judged to be of unusual virtue were sent to a voluntary exile in other towns, such as Naples, Praeneste, or Tibur, where they would be safe from any punishment or calamity. This arrangement was duly ratified on oath with these towns. Banishment was seen as a refuge and harbinger of safety from punishment, rather than a punishment itself. People would choose to leave the city and abandon their rights of citizenship as a way to avoid imprisonment, execution, or disgrace.