Context

About the lecture

In this module, we provide the key context for Cicero’s speech Pro Cluentio, focusing in particular on: (i) when the trial took place, and why this is important; (ii) the figure whom Cicero is defending, Aulus Cluentius Habitus; and (iii) the nature of the Roman court and its differences from the modern (English) law court; (iv) the make-up of the Roman jury, and the way in which a verdict is reached; and (v) the punishment awaiting Cluentius should Cicero fail in his defence.

About the lecturer

Andrew joined Brasenose in 2006 to study for his BA in Classics (Course IIA). Thanks to the generosity of the Helmore Fund, he was able to stay on for his MSt in Classical Languages & Literature. As a senior Germaine Scholar, he recently completed his DPhil on the early imperial reception of Cicero under the supervision of Llewelyn Morgan. His research interests include the reception of Cicero in the early imperial period, politics and thought in the late Roman Republic and early Principate.