Marcus Tullius Cicero (106 – 43 B.C.E.) was a Roman statesman, lawyer, scholar, philosopher, and writer. As he was educated in the teachings of the ancient Greek philosophers, poets, and historians, he was able to translate Greek philosophy into Latin. This allowed him the opportunity to study Roman law and eventually work within the political and ruling class. He was an important figure during the times of civil unrest and war within the Roman Republic. His extensive writings include books of rhetoric, philosophical and political treatises, orations, and letters. He is considered to be the greatest Roman orator.
Quotes by Cicero…
You will be of as much worth to others as you are to yourself.
Nothing is more delightful than the light of truth.
How great is the power of truth! Of its own power it can easily defend itself against all the ingenuity of cunning and wisdom of men, and against the treacherous plots of all the world.
The precept, “Know yourself” was not solely intended to abolish the pride of men, but also that we might understand our own value.
It is proof of great talents to recall the mind from the senses, and to separate thought from habit.
Every man’s nature is concealed with many folds of disguise, and covered with various veils. His brows, his eyes, and very often his countenance, are deceitful, and his speech is most commonly a lie.
He employs his emotion who can make no use of his reason.
Careful attention to one thing often proves superior to genius.
Our minds possess by nature an insatiable desire to know the truth.
The contemplation of celestial things will make a man both speak and think more sublimely and magnificently when he descends to human affairs.