3 Review(s)

In The Life of Cicero, Volume II, Anthony Trollope continues his exploration of the life and legacy of Marcus Tullius Cicero, the renowned Roman orator, statesman, and philosopher. This volume covers Cicero’s later years, focusing on his political challenges and the shifting dynamics of the late Roman Republic. Trollope examines Cicero’s involvement in key events, such as the rise of Julius Caesar, the civil wars, and Cicero’s attempts to defend the Republic against authoritarianism, revealing his complex role in the turbulent politics of Rome.Trollope also delves into Cicero’s philosophical works, produced during his periods of political exile and reflection. Cicero’s writings on ethics, law, and rhetoric are discussed as both personal responses to his own struggles and contributions to Roman intellectual life. Trollope highlights how Cicero’s eloquence and legal acumen helped shape Roman thought and values, emphasizing his dedication to justice and liberty even in times of personal risk.