Plutarch's Life of Cicero is a biography of the renowned Roman statesman and orator Marcus Tullius Cicero, written by the Greek historian Plutarch in the late 1st century AD. The work is part of Plutarch's larger collection of biographies, known as the Parallel Lives, which aimed to compare the lives and achievements of prominent Greeks and Romans. In the case of Cicero, Plutarch's biography provides a unique insight into the life and times of one of ancient Rome's most influential figures, offering a detailed and engaging narrative that explores Cicero's political career, literary achievements, and personal struggles.
Early Life and Education
Cicero was born on January 3, 106 BC, in Arpinum, a small town in southern Italy. His family was of equestrian rank, and his father was a wealthy landowner. According to Plutarch, Cicero’s early life was marked by a strong desire for learning and a natural talent for rhetoric. He studied law and philosophy in Rome, where he was heavily influenced by the Stoic philosopher Posidonius and the orator Quintus Hortensius. Cicero’s education played a crucial role in shaping his future career, and his mastery of rhetoric and law would eventually earn him recognition as one of Rome’s leading orators and statesmen.
Rise to Prominence
Cicero’s entry into politics was facilitated by his successful defense of Roscius of Ameria, a wealthy landowner accused of murder. The case, which was highly publicized, brought Cicero to the attention of the Roman elite and marked the beginning of his rise to prominence. Plutarch notes that Cicero’s oratory skills and his ability to think on his feet were key factors in his success, and he quickly gained a reputation as a formidable advocate and politician. In 75 BC, Cicero was appointed quaestor in Sicily, where he distinguished himself by his honesty and integrity, earning the respect of the local population and the admiration of his peers.
| Year | Event | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| 75 BC | Quaestor in Sicily | Established reputation for honesty and integrity |
| 69 BC | Aedile in Rome | Further solidified his position as a rising star in Roman politics |
| 66 BC | Praetor in Rome | Demonstrated his ability to balance competing interests and maintain order |
Consulship and Exile
In 63 BC, Cicero was elected consul, the highest office in the Roman Republic. During his consulship, he faced significant challenges, including the conspiracy of Catiline, a rival politician who sought to overthrow the government. Plutarch praises Cicero’s bravery and leadership in suppressing the conspiracy, which ultimately led to Catiline’s defeat and death. However, Cicero’s actions also earned him powerful enemies, and in 58 BC, he was forced into exile by his rival Clodius. Cicero’s exile was a devastating blow, and he was only able to return to Rome after a period of 16 months, during which time he was unable to engage in politics or practice law.
Later Life and Legacy
After his return from exile, Cicero continued to play an active role in Roman politics, although his influence was diminished. He became increasingly disillusioned with the state of the Republic and the rise of the triumvirs, a group of powerful leaders who dominated Roman politics. Plutarch notes that Cicero’s later years were marked by a sense of melancholy and disappointment, as he watched the Republic he had once defended and served crumble around him. Despite this, Cicero remained a prolific writer and correspondent, and his letters and speeches continue to be studied and admired for their elegance and insight. Cicero’s legacy as a statesman, orator, and philosopher has endured for centuries, and his influence can be seen in the works of countless writers, politicians, and thinkers.
| Work | Year | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| De Republica | 51 BC | Explores the ideal form of government and the role of the statesman |
| De Officiis | 44 BC | Examines the moral obligations and responsibilities of public life |
| Philippics | 44 BC | A series of speeches attacking Mark Antony and defending the Roman Republic |
What was the significance of Cicero’s consulship?
+Cicero’s consulship in 63 BC was a pivotal moment in his career, as he faced significant challenges, including the conspiracy of Catiline. His bravery and leadership in suppressing the conspiracy earned him widespread acclaim and established him as a major figure in Roman politics.
How did Cicero’s exile affect his life and career?
+Cicero’s exile in 58 BC was a devastating blow, as he was forced to abandon his political career and flee Rome. Although he was eventually able to return, his influence was diminished, and he was never able to regain the same level of power and prestige he had enjoyed before his exile.
What is the significance of Cicero’s writings?
+Cicero’s writings, including his letters, speeches, and philosophical treatises, offer a unique insight into the intellectual and political landscape of ancient Rome. His works on philosophy, politics, and rhetoric continue to be studied and debated by scholars and intellectuals around the world, and his influence can be seen in the development of Western philosophy, politics, and literature.
