Letter I: Cicero writes to Atticus, April 44 BC

When was this letter to Atticus written? What is significant about this?

9th or 10th of April 44 BC

It is three and a half weeks after the assassination of Julius Caesar.

What did Cicero think of Caesar’s assassination?

Although not part of the conspiracy, Cicero was in Rome and applauded its success, calling the assassins ‘heroes’ and later the act a ‘feast’

What did Cicero do after Caesar’s assassination?

Cicero argued in the Senate for reconciliation and a truce was agreed between the liberators and the Caesarians. However, in April both the liberators and the Caesarian leaders started gathering political support, money, and troops in Rome, Italy and around the provinces.

Where was Cicero residing when he wrote this letter?

In his villa south of Rome at Lanuvium.

What is the tone of this letter?

Informal

What about this letter gives it an informal tone? (3)

• Candid comments about the condition of Rome→ Power vacuum

• Personal pronouns and asking Atticus explicitly for information

• Sarcastic rhetorical questions starting the letter

What is the main purpose of this letter? (2)

• To express concern over the state of Rome

• To ask for news of what’s going on in Rome