Cicero as Philosopher

Cicero's injunction that his readers think for themselves was not only directed at his contemporaries, but at posterity. His philosophy has continued to unfold over the centuries, repeatedly inspiring new and independent philosophical positions. This volume aims to advance our understanding of Cicero's philosophy and his unparalleled place in the history of ideas.

The editors begin the volume with an introduction to key aspects of Cicero's thought and an chronological overview of Cicero's philosophical reception in the west. Part One of the volume focuses on Cicero's distinctive philosophical methodology, addressing Cicero's pragmatic orientation and his authorial methods in crafting philosophical dialogues and in writing philosophy for a Roman audience. The chapters in Part Two examine concrete philosophical themes and debates in Ciceronian philosophy, with a special focus on Cicero's ethical and political works. Part Three traces key moments in Cicero's philosophical afterlife, from Augustine through the Scholastic period to the Renaissance, culminating in the rich and varied tradition of Ciceronian reception in the European Enlightenment.

Since J.G.F. Powell's pivotal contribution in 1995, we have witnessed countless translations and scholarly treatments of Cicero's philosophy that emphasize his creativity and influence. Following in this tradition, the present volume offers fresh and incisive contributions that advance the contemporary renaissance in Ciceronian scholarship.