Cicero Philippic II: A Selection

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 19 April 2018
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

The End of an Era: The Death of Julius Caesar and the Search for a New Leader

44 BC, a pivotal year in Roman history, marked the end of Julius Caesar's reign and the beginning of a search for a new leader. Following Caesar's assassination, his supporters were divided, with Caesars deputy, Antony, and the 18-year-old Octavian, the future Augustus, vying with each other to fill the vacant position. However, their motives were not purely driven by a desire to serve Rome, but rather by personal ambition and power.

Enter Cicero, a renowned orator who had been away from Rome during the civil war. Recognizing the urgent need for unity and leadership, Cicero returns to the city with a mission to save it using his powerful oratory skills. In this speech, known as the Philippic II, Cicero takes on Antony, delivering a scathing attack that ultimately leads to Antonys bitter hostility and Cicero's eventual elimination.

The Philippic II is a masterpiece of invective, showcasing Cicero's ability to craft persuasive and emotionally charged arguments. He meticulously dissects Antonys character, exposing his flaws, weaknesses, and treachery. Using vivid imagery and powerful language, Cicero paints a vivid picture of Antonys corruption, greed, and disregard for the well-being of Rome.

One of the most striking aspects of the speech is Cicero's use of rhetorical devices such as repetition, parallelism, and rhetorical questions. These techniques help to emphasize his points and create a sense of urgency and conviction in his audience. Cicero repeatedly calls Antony a "villain," using the word to undermine his credibility and portray him as a threat to the Roman state. He also compares Antony to a coward, questioning his bravery and questioning his loyalty to Caesar.

In addition to his personal attacks, Cicero also takes aim at Antonys political agenda. He criticizes his decision to form an alliance with Cleopatra, the queen of Egypt, and his willingness to abandon Rome's allies in pursuit of personal gain. Cicero argues that Antony's actions were selfish and shortsighted, and that they threatened the stability and security of the Roman Empire.

Despite the intensity of the attack, Cicero does not resort to personal insults or violence. Instead, he relies on his rhetorical skills to undermine Antonys position and convince his audience of his arguments. His use of logic, reason, and historical evidence helps to support his claims and make them more persuasive.

The Philippic II is a testament to Cicero's political prowess and his commitment to the well-being of Rome. It serves as a reminder of the power of oratory and the importance of speaking truth to power. While Cicero's ultimate fate is uncertain, his speech remains a powerful legacy, inspiring future generations to stand up for what is right and fight against corruption and tyranny.

Weight: 242g
Dimension: 139 x 214 x 10 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350010239