662. Pompey by Plutarch. Plutarch makes an interesting comment on Pompey- great people in peace time whose greatness rests upon military skills has a tendency to be reduced. I add- particularly if military life remains their persona in a democratic atmosphere.
The difference between Cicero and Pompey- the political power Pompey acquired via legal means he dissipated by helping others illegally- such as bribery to get his friends elected. But also I add by walking on people on his way up- such as finding ways to belittle Lucullus. Later of course Lucullus responded by crushing Pompey's measures in the Senate. He had the nerve to support Cicero to help prevent his exile.
It seems to me that he was duped by Caesar to betray his friends and country to pass bills directed to his own benefit.
No wonder Cicero mistrusted mob wisdom willing to support Caesar's bills in which their immediate benefit was apparent.
Pompey and Caesar bound people to them via distribution of money. As this only provides temporary joy- more must be on the way.
Riots prior to 52 consulship must have sickened Cicero- perhaps prompted remarks in De Legibus about necessity of showing courtesy toward elected officials.
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