In this work, Mitchell brings to a conclusion his study of Cicero's political life and thought begun in "Cicero, the Ascending Years". This book spans the last 20 years of Cicero's life, from the end of his consulship in 63 BC to his death in 43 BC. Mitchell begins by discussing Cicero's political and social ideas and the extent to which they reflect the institutions of traditional republicanism. He then traces the reversal in Cicero's fortunes in the years after his consulship, describing his political isolation and his disillusionment with the conservative nobility. According to Mitchell, Cicero's inability to find a place or party seriously affected his political behaviour during this period. He was silent when Caesar, Pompey, and Crassus formed the First Triumvirate, defenseless when attacked and driven into exile, fearful and tentative in his political responses after his restoration, and reluctant when drawn into an alliance with the triumvirs. Eventually, after Caesar's assassination, Cicero seized a last hour of glory, assuming for a short time the role of preeminent "princeps". Mitchell shows that although Cicero made no lasting impact on the course of political events in his time, he ended his life defending the ideals to which he had remained steadfastly attached.
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This book concludes a study of Cicero's political life and thought (from the end of his consulship in 63 B.C. to his death in 43 B.C.) begun in Mitchell's Cicero, The Ascending Years (Yale Univ. Pr., 1989). The same careful reliance upon the ancient ev idence and judicious handling of modern scholarship are everywhere apparent. What sets this biography apart is its lucid exposition of Cicero's idealistic political philosophy to illuminate the cruel realities and puzzling contradictions of his turbulent career. The result is a humane portrait of one of the greatest figures in the history of Western civilization. Highly recommended for the classical scholar.
-Robert J. Lenardon, Siena Coll., Loudon ville, N.Y.
Copyright 1991 Reed Business Information, Inc.
-Robert J. Lenardon, Siena Coll., Loudon ville, N.Y.
Copyright 1991 Reed Business Information, Inc.
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