Powerful ideas from top nonfiction
Try Blinkist to get the key ideas from 7,500+ bestselling nonfiction titles and podcasts. Listen or read in just 15 minutes.
Get started for free
Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
Cicero summary
Brief summary
Cicero by Anthony Everitt is a captivating biography that delves into the life and times of the famous Roman statesman and orator. It offers a vivid portrayal of Cicero's political career and his enduring influence on Western thought.
Topics
Table of Contents
Cicero
Summary of key ideas
Introduction to the Life and Times of Cicero
In Cicero, Anthony Everitt takes us on a journey through the life and times of one of Rome's most fascinating figures. Marcus Tullius Cicero, a lawyer, orator, philosopher, and statesman, lived through the tumultuous period of the late Roman Republic. Everitt's biography provides a detailed account of Cicero's rise to prominence, his political and intellectual pursuits, and his ultimate downfall.
We begin with Cicero's early years, growing up in a small town southeast of Rome. His father, a member of the equestrian order, ensured Cicero received an excellent education. After moving to Rome, Cicero studied law and philosophy, quickly establishing himself as a brilliant orator and an astute lawyer. His early success in the courts and his eloquence earned him the nickname 'the Tully', after a famous Roman orator.
Cicero's Political Career and Philosophical Contributions
After a stint as a soldier, Cicero embarked on a political career, winning election to various offices, including the consulship, the highest position in the Roman Republic. As a statesman, he was known for his integrity, eloquence, and commitment to the principles of the Republic. He championed the rule of law, the supremacy of the Senate, and the preservation of traditional Roman values.
Simultaneously, Cicero was a prolific writer and a deep thinker. He contributed significantly to Roman philosophy, particularly in his moral essays, such as De Officiis, which explored the nature of duty, justice, and the ideal statesman. His philosophical works, written in the form of dialogues, were widely read and admired throughout antiquity.
Cicero's Struggle Against Caesar and His Downfall
However, Cicero's unwavering defense of the Republic put him at odds with powerful political forces. His most significant conflict was with Julius Caesar, who, in his quest for power, undermined the traditional Roman institutions. Despite his reservations about Caesar, Cicero initially tried to work with him, but as Caesar's ambitions became increasingly apparent, Cicero became one of his most vocal critics.
Following Caesar's assassination, Cicero initially supported the conspirators, including Brutus and Cassius. However, when Mark Antony, Caesar's right-hand man, emerged as a powerful figure, Cicero turned against him. His scathing speeches, known as the Philippics, attacked Antony and his policies, earning him Antony's undying enmity.
The Final Years and Legacy of Cicero
Everitt vividly portrays the final years of Cicero's life, marked by political turmoil and personal tragedy. In 43 BC, following the defeat of the conspirators, Cicero was declared an enemy of the state, and he was hunted down and executed. His severed head and hands were displayed in the Roman Forum, a brutal end to a remarkable life.
In conclusion, Cicero offers a comprehensive and engaging account of a man who embodied the virtues and vices of the late Roman Republic. Cicero's life and writings continue to inspire and provoke, raising crucial questions about the nature of power, the responsibilities of the individual in society, and the fragility of political institutions. Everitt's biography serves as a compelling introduction to this complex and influential figure, bringing Cicero's world and ideas vividly to life.
How do we create content on this page?
More knowledge in less time
Read or listen
Get the key ideas from nonfiction bestsellers in minutes, not hours.
Find your next read
Get book lists curated by experts and personalized recommendations.
Shortcasts New
We’ve teamed up with podcast creators to bring you key insights from podcasts.
What is Cicero about?
Cicero by Anthony Everitt provides a comprehensive and engaging account of the life and times of one of ancient Rome's greatest orators and statesmen. Through meticulous research and vivid storytelling, the book delves into Cicero's political career, his philosophical beliefs, and his enduring influence on Western thought. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the turbulent world of Roman politics and the enduring legacy of a remarkable figure.
Cicero Review
Cicero (2001) delves into the fascinating life of Cicero, a prominent Roman statesman and orator. Here's why this book is worth your time:
- Unveils intriguing details about Cicero's political career, shedding light on ancient Rome's turbulent times.
- Explores Cicero's profound influence on Western political philosophy and rhetoric, making it a valuable read for history buffs.
- By presenting Cicero’s life in a compelling narrative, the book breathes life into the past, ensuring an engaging and thought-provoking read.
Who should read Cicero?
History enthusiasts who want to learn about ancient Rome and its political figures
Readers interested in the art of persuasive oratory and rhetoric
Individuals who admire intellectual and philosophical discussions
Categories with Cicero
Book summaries like Cicero
People ❤️ Blinkist
Sven O.
It's highly addictive to get core insights on personally relevant topics without repetition or triviality. Added to that the apps ability to suggest kindred interests opens up a foundation of knowledge.
Thi Viet Quynh N.
Great app. Good selection of book summaries you can read or listen to while commuting. Instead of scrolling through your social media news feed, this is a much better way to spend your spare time in my opinion.
Jonathan A.
Life changing. The concept of being able to grasp a book's main point in such a short time truly opens multiple opportunities to grow every area of your life at a faster rate.
Renee D.
Great app. Addicting. Perfect for wait times, morning coffee, evening before bed. Extremely well written, thorough, easy to use.
People also liked these summaries
4.8 Stars
Average ratings on iOS and Google Play
43 Million
Downloads on all platforms
10+ years
Experience igniting personal growth
Cicero FAQs
What is the main message of Cicero?
The main message of Cicero is the power of rhetoric and philosophy in influencing politics and society.
How long does it take to read Cicero?
Reading Cicero takes varying hours, but our Blinkist summary can be read in a few minutes.
Is Cicero a good book? Is it worth reading?
Cicero is worth reading for its insights into ancient Rome and the enduring relevance of Cicero's ideas.
Who is the author of Cicero?
Anthony Everitt is the author of Cicero.
What to read after Cicero?
If you're wondering what to read next after Cicero, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- Fast Food Nation by Eric Schlosser
- Lean In by Sheryl Sandberg
- Eating Animals by Jonathan Safran Foer
- Happiness by Richard Layard
- The Wisdom of Crowds by James Surowiecki
- The Omnivore's Dilemma by Michael Pollan
- Simply Complexity by Neil F. Johnson
- Trust Me, I’m Lying by Ryan Holiday
- The World Without Us by Alan Weisman
- The Paradox of Choice by Barry Schwartz