The Life of Cicero (Hardback)
Lessons for Today from the Greatest Orator of the Roman Republic
Imprint: Pen & Sword History
Pages: 336
ISBN: 9781399097413
Published: 4th October 2023
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Cicero was Rome's greatest orator and one of the key statesmen of the late Roman Republic. He championed traditional Republican values against populist demagogues like Julius Caesar during a tumultuous period of civil war and unrest. During his term as consul (63 BCE), his decisive actions thwarted a plot to overthrow the Senate, controversially having the ringleaders executed. He outlived Caesar but then mounted a virulent opposition to Mark Antony, which led to Cicero's proscription and execution as an enemy of the state.
The legacy of his speeches, letters and treatises on politics, law, oratory and other subjects endured, however, and was massively influential on Latin literature and, when rediscovered in the Middle Ages, formed one of the cornerstones of the Renaissance.
The period in which Cicero flourished and died was one in which democracy was under attack from radical demagoguery and Philip Kay-Bujak believes his career holds important parallels and lessons for our own times. Written in a clear and accessible style, this fresh look at Cicero's life demonstrates his relevance to a modern audience.
Fascinating read. Cicero obviously is not only a very important historical figure but one who is immensely complex. Therefore, in order to successfully capture this reality one has to do a tremendous amount of research and this author obviously did that. I found it to be very engaging as well. Oftentimes books of this ilk that are historical biographies have a difficult time inputting the requisite narrative flow that keeps the audience engaged. This book did not have that trouble. Greatly enjoyed this.
NetGalley, Cassidy Chloupek
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
NetGalley, Carol Elizabeth Keogh
I am an ardent fan of Cicero and this book is a worthy addition to my mainly fictional accounts of this amazing, clever man. Bujak writes with obvious affection for his subject and I found it a very easy read. Ciceros verbal battles with his enemies are legendary and his style of oration second to none. Anyone who is curious about the politics and intrigues of the Roman Empire will enjoy this book. Bujak injects life into ancient Rome and its primary and secondary characters. I cannot recommend highly enough. Thank you to Pen & Sword for an excellent publication and Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this excellent book.
About Philip Kay-Bujak
After graduating in European History from The University of East Anglia, Philip Kay-Bujak spent ten years in the Royal Anglian Regiment as a TA officer and twenty-three years teaching history and classics in the independent sector. He was a Housemaster at Langley School, Norfolk and Headmaster of Stover School in Devon. An Associate of The Royal Historical Society, he is now retired and is a full-time writer. His previous works include Undefeated (2008), The Bravest Man in The British Army (2018), The Life of Cicero (2023) and Gallia Narbonensis, which details the Roman invasion and occupation of what is now southern France. He lives in East Sussex.
Born on this day - Cicero
3rd January 0106 BC
Marcus Tullius Cicero is best known for his influential speeches, writings on rhetoric and philosophy, and his role in Roman politics during the fall of the Republic.
Died on this day - Cicero
7th December 0043 BC
After Caesar's assassination, Cicero opposed Mark Antony through a series of speeches. This opposition led to Cicero's death in 43 BC, ordered by Antony and Octavian.
According to Pliny (admittedly a native of the province), Gallia Narbonensis was 'by the cultivation of its soil, the manners and civilization of its inhabitants and the extent of its wealth, surpassed by no other province in the Empire'. Philip Kay-Bujak describes how this vital area came to be occupied and incorporated into Rome's domains and how it was then governed. Straddling important roads connecting Rome with Spain, northern Gaul and the Channel ports, the province grew into an agricultural and economic powerhouse. Containing some of the finest examples of Roman cities, such as Narbonne…
By Philip Kay-BujakClick here to buy both titles for £37.50
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