Collecting the most incisive & influential writings of one of Romes finest orators Ciceros Selected Works" is translated with an introduction by Michael Grant in " Penguin Classics". Lawyer philosopher statesman & defender of Romes Republic Cicero was a master of eloquence & his pure literary & oratorical style & strict sense of morality have been a powerful influence on European literature & thought for over two thousand years in matters of politics philosophy & faith. This selection demonstrates the diversity of his writings &
Includes:: letters to friends & statesmen on Roman life & politics; the vitriolic Second Philippic Against Antony; & his two most famous philosophical treatises " On Duties" & " On Old Age"
- a celebration of his own declining years. Written at a time of brutal political & social change Ciceros lucid ethical writings formed the foundation of the Western liberal tradition in political & moral thought that continues to this day. This translation by Michael Grant conveys the elegance of Ciceros writings. His introduction describes their social & political background while maps genealogical charts timelines & a glossary place the works in context. Marcus Tullius Cicero (106-43 BC) Roman orator & statesman was born at Arpinium to a wealthy local family. Having been educated in Rome by 70 BC he had established himself as a leading barrister & was beginning a successful political career. Cicero received honours usually reserved only for the Roman aristocracy & was one of the greatest Roman orators. If you enjoyed " Selected Works" you might like Suetonius " The Twelve Caesars" also available in " Penguin Classics"."