658. Caesar by Plutarch. It is interesting that Plutarch focuses on Caesar's lavish public displays. Plutarch has it that Pompey and Caesar planned to subdue each other. By Plutarch's time it is clear that an understanding of politics of the Roman republic was virtually non-existent.
One scenario reveals a realistic view of Cicero- he could see that change was coming of what sort he could not be sure, but change- so Cicero preferred in his arguments and notes to preserve as much of the Republic as possible- hence the reason he negotiated so hard with both Pompey and Caesar.
Plutarch sees destiny following Caesar, that he was betrayed by excessive adulation which was led by Cicero. So the guy who gave his life to save liberty lifted Caesar on his shoulder as a god. This makes no sense based on the evidence. It is an argument from convenience.
Brutus and Cassius ran from Rome after riots broke out. Yet Cicero has been censured for failing at trial of Milo and timidity during exile which of course we only know from his private and personal correspondence.
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