Title: Cicero: The Life and Times of Rome’s Greatest Politician
Author: Anthony Everitt
First published January 1, 2001
364 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 9780375758959 (ISBN10: 037575895X)
Rating: 3.87
Overview
Anthony Everitt’s Cicero: The Life and Times of Rome’s Greatest Politician is a captivating biography that delves into the world of ancient Rome during its most magnificent time. Cicero was a man of many talents: a brilliant politician, a skilled lawyer, and an astute statesman.
He was a friend to young Brutus and an advisor to Pompey, the great military hero. Cicero was also a master of political manipulation, feared for his wit and his ability to expose his opponents’ secrets.
This biography explores the fascinating life of Cicero, who presided over Roman law and politics for almost half a century. From his rise to the public stage at twenty-six to his witness of Caesar’s dictatorship and assassination, Cicero was a legendary defender of freedom and a model to French and American revolutionaries.
Anthony Everitt paints a vivid picture of Roman politics, which was rife with scandals, corruption, and smear campaigns. Cicero emerges as a human and flawed figure, yet intensely eloquent and astute in his observations of the last days of Republican Rome.
This biography is a must-read for anyone interested in ancient history or the art of politics. As Voltaire said, “He taught us how to think.”
About the Author
Meet Anthony Everitt, a knowledgeable academic hailing from Britain. His background includes studying English literature at the prestigious University of Cambridge.
Everitt is a regular contributor to notable publications such as The Guardian and The Financial Times, and has a wealth of experience in both literature and visual arts. In fact, he even held the esteemed position of Secretary-General of the Arts Council of Great Britain.
Currently, he serves as a visiting professor of performing and visual arts at Nottingham Trent University. Everitt’s accolades include being a companion of the Liverpool Institute of Performing Arts and an Honorary Fellow of the Dartington College of Arts.
He is also a talented author, having written several books on Roman history, including biographies on Augustus, Hadrian, and Cicero, as well as a book on The Rise of Rome. When he’s not writing or teaching, you can find Everitt residing in Wivenhoe near Colchester.
Editoral Review
Cicero: The Life and Times of Rome’s Greatest Politician by Anthony Everitt is a fascinating biography that provides readers with an in-depth look into the life of one of Rome’s most influential politicians. Published on January 1, 2001, this book comprises the history genre and explores the life of Cicero, who remains one of the most respected and revered figures of ancient Rome to this day.
The author, Anthony Everitt, is renowned for his work on ancient Rome, and his expertise on this era is evident throughout this book. With Cicero, he has crafted a masterpiece that combines engaging storytelling with impeccable historical research.
Everitt masterfully weaves together the various aspects of Cicero’s life, the political and the personal, to paint a detailed portrait of this complex figure. The book begins with Cicero’s early life and his ascent to Roman politics.
The narrative follows his career as a lawyer, consul, and orator, providing readers with a glimpse into the world of Roman politics at the time. The author also delves deep into Cicero’s personal life, describing his relationships and family life.
The book primarily focuses on Cicero’s involvement in some of the most significant political events such as his role in the conspiracy of Catiline and his opposition to the dictatorship of Julius Caesar. It is fascinating to read about the political landscape of ancient Rome and the various forces that shaped the course of history.
What sets Cicero apart from other biographies of ancient Rome is the author’s attention to detail. Everitt provides readers with a glimpse into the daily life of ancient Rome, from fashion to food and architecture, making the setting of the story come alive with vivid descriptions.
Another significant strength of the book is the author’s ability to create a character-driven narrative. Cicero’s life story is full of twists and turns, and the author skillfully uses these changes in his life to explore the deeper themes of power, corruption, and morality.
One of the few limitations of the book is that it can be slow-paced in certain sections, especially when the narrative delves into the intricate details of the legal system of ancient Rome. However, this is but a minor flaw in an overall robust and fascinating narrative.
In conclusion, Cicero: The Life and Times of Rome’s Greatest Politician by Anthony Everitt is a must-read for anyone interested in the ancient world or history. The book provides insight into a world that is no longer present, yet it remains relevant in today’s political climate.
The author’s passion for ancient Rome is evident on every page, and it is sure to engage readers from start to finish. This book receives a rating of 4.5/5 and is highly recommended.
