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Emperors of Rome

Episode CCXXIII - The Championship of the Oppressed (The Catiline Conspiracy IV)

Apr 26, 2024
Associate Professor Rhiannon Evans discusses Catiline's rebellion against Cicero in ancient Rome, highlighting the Senate's response, the intrigue of the conspiracy, and the dynamics between the two figures. They explore the implications of Cicero's actions, the debate surrounding his motives, and Catiline's dramatic departure from Rome, claiming to fight for the oppressed.
36:43

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Catiline positioned himself as the advocate of the oppressed, while Cicero faced threats and suspicions in asserting power.
  • The Catiline Conspiracy reveals deep socio-political tensions in ancient Rome, pitting the ruling elite against the disenfranchised rebels.

Deep dives

Cicero and the Senate's Decree for Ultimate Power

Cicero seeks Senate's approval for expanded powers by invoking the Cenatus Consultum Ultimum, granting him authority in emergencies to levy troops, conduct wars, and apply force without popular assembly approval. Scholars question Cicero's motives for this extreme decree, with some suspecting personal threats overriding state concerns.

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