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Marcus Tullius Cicero, J. G. F. Powell
Get It NowThis volume presents new texts of Cicero's dialogues on political philosophy, De Re Publica and De Legibus, together with corrected versions of the editor's previously published editions of Cato Maior de Senectute and Laelius de Amicitia. The texts are based on a full reconsideration of the manuscript evidence and are presented in a clear and readable form.
De Republica
Chapter 1:
* Scipio Africanus, Laelius, and Furius invite Scipio Aemilianus to discuss the ideal state.
* Scipio Aemilianus describes the importance of justice and the rule of law.
* Real example: The Roman Republic's emphasis on legal institutions and the rule of law.
Chapter 2:
* Scipio Aemilianus outlines the three main forms of government: monarchy, aristocracy, and democracy.
* He argues that a mixed government, combining elements of each, is ideal.
* Real example: The Roman Republic's combination of elements of monarchy (consuls), aristocracy (Senate), and democracy (popular assemblies).
Chapter 3:
* Scipio Aemilianus discusses the role of education in preparing citizens for government.
* He emphasizes the importance of studying history, philosophy, and mathematics.
* Real example: The traditional Roman education system that focused on these subjects.
De Legibus
Chapter 1:
* Cicero opens the dialogue by discussing the nature of law and its origins.
* He argues that law is based on reason and is derived from the nature of humanity.
* Real example: The Roman legal system's emphasis on natural law and the principles of equity.
Chapter 2:
* Cicero outlines the four main types of laws: divine law, natural law, civil law, and the law of nations.
* He explains the relationship between these different types of laws.
* Real example: The Roman distinction between jus divinum, jus naturale, jus civile, and jus gentium.
Chapter 3:
* Cicero discusses the application of law to specific areas of society, such as marriage, property rights, and criminal justice.
* He emphasizes the importance of balancing individual rights with the common good.
* Real example: The Roman laws governing marriage, inheritance, and criminal punishment.
Cato Maior De Senectute
Chapter 1:
* Cato the Elder, an elderly Roman statesman, discusses the joys and challenges of old age.
* He argues that old age is a time of wisdom and contentment.
* Real example: The Roman respect for the wisdom and experience of the elderly.
Chapter 2:
* Cato provides practical advice for living a long and healthy life.
* He emphasizes the importance of diet, exercise, and mental activity.
* Real example: The traditional Roman emphasis on physical fitness and intellectual pursuits.
Chapter 3:
* Cato refutes the common prejudices against old age, such as the belief that it is a time of weakness and loneliness.
* He argues that old age can be a fulfilling and productive stage of life.
* Real example: The Roman tradition of allowing elderly statesmen to serve as advisors and consultants.
Laelius De Amicitia
Chapter 1:
* Laelius discusses the nature of friendship and its importance in human life.
* He argues that friendship is based on mutual respect, affection, and virtue.
* Real example: The famous friendships between Roman politicians and military leaders, such as Scipio Africanus and Laelius.
Chapter 2:
* Laelius outlines the different types of friendship and their relative merits.
* He discusses the importance of choosing friends wisely and cultivating friendships over time.
* Real example: The Roman emphasis on loyalty, trust, and mutual support in friendships.
Chapter 3:
* Laelius provides practical advice for maintaining and repairing friendships.
* He emphasizes the importance of open communication, forgiveness, and selflessness.
* Real example: The Roman tradition of "amicitia," which involved deep loyalty and mutual obligations.
