Letter C: Cicero writes to Curio in 53 BC

( needs editing)

Who is Curio?

Gaius Scribonius Curio, an upcoming politician, and friend of Cicero.

What was Cicero doing in 53 BC?

He was working under the shadow of the First Triumvirate and was frustrated about the current situation.

What is the purpose of this letter?

Cicero appears to be writing to Curio about having nothing to write. The political situation, he implies, makes freedom of speech impossible.

What 4 themes does Cicero address?

• The art of letter-writing

• Defining the different types of letters

• The stifling of freedom of speech due to the political situation

• Cicero encouraging promising younger members of the Roman ruling class.

What types of letter content does Cicero identify?

• Information

• Intimate and humorous

• serious and profound

What does Cicero state that reveals the value of libertas?

‘I do not dare to write what I feel, and I do not wish to write what I don’t feel’