Chapter 2: Marcus Tullius Cicero: Politics in a Dying Republic

Marcus Tullius Cicero

Roman statesman and philosopher who staunchly defended Republican ideals.

Aristotle

His ideas on the highest callings influenced Cicero’s vision of public service.

highest callings

Cicero’s conviction that serving the state is the noblest pursuit.

Dream of Scipio

A visionary narrative linking personal virtue to Rome’s enduring legacy.

Senate

The core governing body of Rome that Cicero sought to uphold.

Tribunes

Officials elected to protect the rights of Rome’s common people.

ratio scripta

'Written reason'; the codified law that Cicero prized for ensuring justice.

Republic

Cicero’s ideal form of government based on mixed and balanced institutions.

Quaestor

An entry-level official in Roman politics, signifying the start of a public career.

Cataline

The conspirator whose plot against the Republic Cicero exposed.

First Triumvitrate

The alliance that destabilized the Republic, paving the way for Caesar’s rise.

Julius Caesar

His rise to power symbolized the end of traditional Republican rule.

Pompey

A leading military figure whose rivalry with Caesar underscored Rome’s internal conflicts.

vanished virtues

Cicero’s lament over the erosion of moral standards in Rome.

Philippics

Fiery speeches by Cicero directed against Mark Antony.

Mark Antony

A central adversary in Rome’s power struggles.

Octavian (Caesar Augustus)

The eventual victor who established imperial rule.

'On Duties'

Cicero’s treatise on the ethical responsibilities of public service.

natural law

The idea that universal moral principles should underpin human legislation.