535. Velleius Paterculus (Compendium Historiae) - Summary

535.  Velleius Paterculus (Compendium Historiae)-  read previously.  I think that this author has been underrated by modern scholars in the sense that Tacitus, because of his happy felicity for composition, has dominated the field for early imperial history.  Tacitus is also convincing in his portrayal of Tiberius as a latent monster.  Velleius is a fine antidote for the scathing attacks of Tacitus upon Tiberius.  Velleius makes one realize that there were other views of Tiberius, some, such as this one, highly favorable.  It is also interesting to note the favorable press which authors such as Cicero receive in Velleius; makes one realize that Tiberius permitted and perhaps even encouraged history about the end of the Republic without fear of condemnation from the Princeps.

534. De Finibus by Cicero - Summary

534.  De Finibus by Cicero-  This book is a tour de force on the main philosophical systems of the times:  Epicureanism, Stoicism and the Academic.  Cicero states that there is no end to the search for the truth.  What is the chief good?  He begins with Epicureanism.  This was the best known and Cicero begins with it for that reason.  Someone expounds the system and then Cicero replies.

His main problem with Epicureanism was its tendency toward dogmatic rules.  Then someone presents Stoic views and Cicero replies.  He finds holes in the argument of the Stoics.  It seems to deny human nature.  Then Academic.  Cicero replies.  The advantage which the Academic system has over the others is its breadth.  Much of human experience comes under investigation.  Academics have trouble fitting the three goods with wise man and the necessities for achieving happiness.  Cicero is looking for consistency in each system.  He finds inconsistencies in each.  Perhaps his message is in this:  no one system of thought has all of the answers. 

533. De Oratore by Cicero - Summary

533.  De Oratore by Cicero-  This work is so important for an understanding of how Cicero viewed what education an orator should have and this book is important as a document to reflect on the purpose and goals of education in modern times.  Cicero has something of value to contribute to the discussion.  An orator needs to master a wide range of subjects which pertain to proper guidance of government.  This includes an extensive knowledge of history, literature, grammar, logic, philosophy (moral philosophy), mathematics and public speaking.

Cicero was aware that knowing what was right was not enough, one had also to be able to persuade- to do so requires knowledge of subject and an understanding of the emotions of people which play a part in their decisions.  There is also a wonderful discussion on the need for humor in discussion and persuasion.  There are some funny and neat anecdotes in this section.  It is also clear that Cicero saw the need for the professional politician - that is one modeled on the program Cicero lays out.  This gives  a hint of the level of sophistication of Roman politics.  This book is highly rewarding.