Over the coming weeks, I will be posting abbreviated versions of the four chapters of my Honours thesis on the relationship between Cicero and Caesar following the Battle of Pharsalus in 48 BC, after which Caesar’s growing dominance would lead to his perpetual dictatorship of Rome.

These two men were divided politically, but shared a mutual respect for one another. Cicero advocated for a restored Republic mirrored in the great Roman past and led by an ideal director. Caesar was on course to becoming sole ruler of Rome and in opposition to Cicero’s cherished ideal.

Civil war in 49 BC led to subsequent battles that secured Caesar’s dominance, with his autocratic rule subverting the political fortunes of the nobility. Cicero would then negotiate with Caesar in an effort to see the Republic restored.

The turbulent period from 47 - 43 BC would reveal how Cicero shifted from a position of temporary acquiescence to one of actively promoting Caesar’s autocracy. Following the Ides of March, he then rose to confront a more sinister challenge of Antony and Octavian.

This period in Roman history is undoubtedly one of the most exhilarating episodes, from which we can learn so much if we have eyes to see and ears to hear with.

But, do we?

Well, the end is not yet here, so we shall see!

I hope you will join me on this fascinating journey into the final moments of the Roman Republic.