Roman Civilization

Discussion Questions - Week 5

Assigned Readings This Week:

Additional Readings:

Encyclopaedia Britannica on Cicero

Questions to Consider:

What were the circumstances giving rise to the case (facts and parties)?
Who decided the matter (tribunal); what was the basis of their authority?
What was the senate's role in the matter?
What were Cicero's arguments? do you find them persuasive? why, why not?
What were Clodius' arguments? how can you tell? do you find them persuasive? why, why not?
What was the decision? what was the rational for it?
Describe the relationship of authority between the decision makers and the Senate over this decision?
What this a political or religious case?
What is Cicero's attitude towards religion?
What does Cicero say Clodius' attitude toward religion was? Was Cicero right about Clodius' attitude?