Introduction

The relationship between Cicero and Caesar is a complex and multifaceted one. At once admiring of Caesar's oratory and military prowess, Cicero also harbored a deep-seated fear of the man's formidable intellect and political ambitions. This article explores the nuances of their interactions, particularly in the context of the assassins' letters to Brutus, and the broader political landscape of the Roman Republic.

The Vein of Eloquence

According to Cicero, the renowned orator De Oratore attests to Caesar's stunning oratorical skills, noting that his eloquence was 'elegant, splendid, noble, and magnificent.'

The singular term 'vein' in this context refers to a flow or source of something, not to the physical structure of a human body. Cicero's reference to 'vein' as a singular concept is a literary device, emphasizing the unique and singular quality of Caesar's oratory. Unlike living beings that contain one 'vein,' Caesar's oratory stands alone and unparalleled.

Cicero's Reactions to Caesar's Ascendancy

Cicero's response to Caesar's rise to power is a mixture of admiration and fear. In a letter to Brutus, Cicero lashes out at the conspirators who murdered Caesar, referring to them as the 'most cold blooded, hateful, and loathsome pieces of writing' he has ever seen. This animosity stems from Cicero's belief in the sanctity of the Republic and his fear that Caesar's actions threaten its existence.

Even as he admires Caesar's intelligence, charisma, and fighting ability, Cicero is profoundly afraid of these very qualities, feeling that they make Caesar a threat to the Republic's stability. This duality is evident in his decision to seek control over Caesar with limited means and political compromises, rather than outright opposition.

Political Rivalry and Personal Feuds

Caesar and Cicero engaged in a bitter political rivalry, much of which was fueled by their differing views on reform and governance. Cicero, a staunch defender of the Republic and the interests of the aristocracy, was appalled by Caesar's support for the common people and his desire to grant them greater political power. Conversely, Caesar was drawn to the populist sentiments of the lower classes, especially the soldiers, a divergence that led to irreconcilable differences.

Their political divide was further exacerbated by their opposing views on Lucius Sergius Catilina, a figure involved in a failed coup against the Republic. Cicero sought to have Catilina executed for his treason, whereas Caesar wished to spare his services to Rome. This deep-seated enmity gave rise to the famous Populare and Optimate factions in Roman politics.

The Assassination and Its Aftermath

The assassination of Caesar in the Theatrum Pompeii shocked Cicero to the core. His initial relief at the supposed restoration of the Republic was quickly overshadowed by the stark reality of the situation. His letters to Brutus, full of congratulations and implicit approval, reflect both his shock and his grim acceptance of the changing political landscape.

Cicero's subsequent actions, including his attempts to navigate the treacherous waters of Roman politics by allying himself with Mark Anthony and Octavian, demonstrate the complexity of his position. However, his willingness to grant concessions to the Cesareans, particularly to Octavian, shows his strategic attempts to maintain his influence within the Senate.

The ultimate betrayal and Cicero's murder by Mark Antony reveal the fragility of political alliances and the high stakes involved in the struggle for power in the declining days of the Roman Republic. Cicero's fate serves as a warning about the dangers of political enmity and the unpredictability of the political landscape.

Conclusion

The relationship between Cicero and Caesar is a testament to the complex interplay of admiration and enmity in politics. Cicero's love for Caesar's oratory and fear of his political power reflect the broader struggles for control and stability in the Roman Republic. As we study these historical figures, we are reminded of the delicate balance between appreciation and ambition in the pursuit of political power.