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.
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Cicero's Power Play
- Cicero sought increased power from the Senate to address the Catiline Conspiracy, desiring to act by the book.
- Some scholars suggest that his motives were personal rather than for the state's benefit.
Anonymous Letters and Cicero's Motives
- Anonymous letters, possibly implicating Crassus in the conspiracy, were sent to political figures.
- This raises questions about whether it was a ruse for Cicero to gain more power.
Conspirators' Meeting and Timeline Issues
- Catiline met with conspirators, plotting to join Manlius's army, incite revolts, and assassinate Cicero.
- Sallust's timeline inconsistencies raise questions about the conspiracy's nature.