Cicero’s Legacy

Worksheet Description

This worksheet explores the life and impact of Marcus Tullius Cicero, one of the greatest orators and statesmen in ancient Rome. It discusses how Cicero’s eloquence in oratory and writing played a significant role in shaping the political landscape of the Roman Republic. The text recounts his educational background, his quick rise through the ranks of Roman politics, and his pivotal role in the republic’s key events, including his opposition to dictatorial forces. Cicero is presented not just as a political figure but also as a philosophical thinker who contributed to Roman ethics and the understanding of justice and law.

The purpose of this worksheet is to teach students about the importance of rhetoric, philosophy, and civic duty as exemplified by Cicero’s life. It aims to illustrate Cicero’s influence on the legal and political systems of Rome and his efforts to uphold the principles of the republic against the backdrop of civil unrest and power struggles. Students will learn about the delicate balance of power and the role of public discourse in governance. Additionally, the worksheet highlights Cicero’s enduring legacy in western thought, emphasizing the relevance of his ideas about law, governance, and morality to modern democratic principles.