The Letters of Cicero, Volume 1 The Whole Extant Correspodence in Chronological Order   By: Marcus Tullius Cicero (106 BC - 43 BC)

The Letters of Cicero, Volume 1 is a remarkable collection that offers readers a deep and intimate insight into the life and mind of one of ancient Rome's most influential figures, Marcus Tullius Cicero. Assembled in a chronological order, this comprehensive anthology beautifully presents Cicero's entire extant correspondence, providing readers with a unique opportunity to comprehend his personal and public life in a truly immersive manner.

The book allows us to witness the unfolding of Cicero's career, from his early days as a young lawyer and politician to his later ascendancy as a renowned statesman and philosopher. Through his letters, we follow Cicero's relationship with a fascinating array of individuals, including his family, close friends, political allies, and even his most formidable adversaries. These letters shed light not only on the political turbulence of ancient Rome but also on the challenges and triumphs of Cicero's own personal life.

One of the most captivating aspects of this collection is the insight it provides into Cicero's rhetorical genius. Each letter serves as a testament to his eloquence, wit, and intellectual prowess. Whether writing in moments of celebration or despair, Cicero's mastery of language shines through, captivating the reader and imbuing each correspondence with a sense of urgency and authenticity. Furthermore, his letters reveal Cicero's keen observation of human behavior and his astute analysis of the political landscape. It is through these writings that we can truly appreciate the depth of his contributions to both politics and philosophy.

In addition to its historical and intellectual value, The Letters of Cicero, Volume 1 is a testament to the art of translation. The prose, skillfully rendered by the translators, captures the essence of Cicero's voice and allows readers to immerse themselves in the spirit of his age, despite the passage of centuries. The careful notes and annotations accompanying each letter provide indispensable context and elucidate the intricate web of relationships that existed in ancient Rome. These additions ensure that even those unfamiliar with the era can grasp the significance of each exchange and fully appreciate Cicero's world.

The only downside to this volume is its sheer volume itself. As a comprehensive collection, it may seem daunting at first glance. However, it is precisely this thoroughness that allows readers to engage with Cicero's life and works in their entirety. For those seeking a more focused exploration, the volume can easily be approached in a piecemeal manner, with individual letters or correspondences studied independently. This flexibility facilitates readers of various interests and backgrounds to find value in this book.

In conclusion, The Letters of Cicero, Volume 1 is an indispensable resource for anyone interested in the life and thoughts of one of ancient Rome's most esteemed figures. Whether one is a student, historian, or simply a lover of literature, this collection offers a profound glimpse into the mind and times of Cicero. With its meticulous translation, insightful annotations, and rich chronological arrangement, this volume is a captivating ode to the art of letter writing and the enduring legacy of a remarkable individual.

First Page:

The object of this book is to give the English speaking public, in a convenient form, as faithful and readable a copy as the translator was capable of making of a document unique in the literature of antiquity. Whether we regard the correspondence of Cicero from the point of view of the biographer and observer of character, the historian, or the lover of belles lettres , it is equally worthy of study. It seems needless to dwell on the immense historical importance of letters written by prominent actors in one of the decisive periods of the world's history, when the great Republic, that had spread its victorious arms, and its law and discipline, over the greater part of the known world, was in the throes of its change from the old order to the new. If we would understand as who would not? the motives and aims of the men who acted in that great drama, there is nowhere that we can go with better hope of doing so than to these letters... Continue reading book >>