Cicero: Reflection, Reason, & Duty
"Gratitude is not only the greatest of virtues but the parent of all the others."
—Cicero
Marcus Tullius Cicero, born in 106 BCE, was a Roman statesman, orator, lawyer, and philosopher. Often regarded as one of Rome’s greatest speakers, Cicero played a pivotal role in the politics of the late Roman Republic. Though not originally a Stoic, Cicero engaged deeply with Stoic philosophy, integrating its principles into his own writings and life, despite his initial reservations about its rigidity.
Why He's Interesting
Cicero is fascinating for several reasons, chief among them being his ability to blend philosophy with practical politics. While many Stoics were known for their asceticism and detachment from public life, Cicero was a man of action, deeply involved in the turbulent politics of his time. He believed that philosophy should not be confined to the theoretical but should actively guide one’s decisions and actions in public life. His writings offer a unique blend of Stoic thought and real-world application, making Stoic ideas accessible and relevant to those engaged in governance and law.
Cicero’s life was also marked by his commitment to the Republic and his resistance to the rise of dictatorial powers, which culminated in his opposition to Julius Caesar and later, Mark Antony. His courage in standing up for what he believed in, despite the personal risks, exemplifies the Stoic ideal of virtue in the face of adversity.
A Memorable Story
One of the most compelling episodes in Cicero’s life is his involvement in the Catiline Conspiracy. In 63 BCE, during his consulship, Cicero uncovered a plot led by Lucius Sergius Catilina to overthrow the Roman Republic. Cicero’s response was swift and decisive; he delivered a series of speeches, known as the Catilinarian Orations, which exposed the conspiracy to the Senate and the public.
In his first speech, Cicero dramatically addressed Catiline in the Senate, accusing him of treason in front of the entire assembly. His famous opening line, “How long, O Catiline, will you abuse our patience?” still resonates as a powerful example of rhetorical skill and moral conviction. Cicero’s actions during the conspiracy not only thwarted the plot but also cemented his reputation as a defender of the Republic, even as they set him on a path of increasing political isolation.
Stoic Practices and Rituals
Although Cicero was not a strict adherent to Stoicism, he integrated many Stoic practices and rituals into his daily life, particularly during moments of political and personal crisis. Some of these include:
Daily Reflection: Cicero practiced self-examination at the end of each day, reflecting on his actions, decisions, and their alignment with his moral values.
Emotional Resilience: He embraced the Stoic practice of preparing for adversity by regularly contemplating potential challenges and setbacks, which helped him maintain emotional composure during turbulent times.
Duty and Virtue: Cicero upheld the Stoic belief that duty to the state and virtue in public service were paramount, often prioritizing these over personal gain or safety.
Reason Over Emotion: In his speeches and writings, Cicero emphasized the Stoic ideal of using reason to guide actions, rather than being swayed by emotions or passions.
Practical Philosophies to Implement
Daily Reflection: Spend a few minutes each day reflecting on your actions and decisions. Consider whether they align with your values and how you can improve.
Prepare for Adversity: Regularly contemplate potential challenges and how you might handle them.
Prioritize Duty and Virtue: Focus on fulfilling your responsibilities with integrity, even when it’s difficult. Make decisions based on what is right, not just what is expedient.
Use Reason as a Guide: When faced with difficult choices, rely on reason rather than emotions.
Embrace Civic Responsibility: Engage in your community or society with the mindset that public service and contributing to the common good. Volunteer, make your voice heard in your community, and help neighbors.
Related:
