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Cicero's The Republic is an impassioned plea for responsible government written just before the civil war that ended the Roman Republic in a dialogue following Plato. Drawing on Greek political theory, the work embodies the mature reflections of a Roman ex-consul on the nature of political organization, on justice in society, and on the qualities needed in a statesman. Its sequel, The Laws, expounds the influential doctrine of Natural Law, which applies to all mankind, and sets out an ideal code for a reformed Roman Republic, already half in the realm of utopia.This is the first complete English translation of both works for over sixty years and features a lucid Introduction, a Table of Dates, notes on the Roman constitution, and an Index of Names.About the Series: For over 100 years Oxford World's Classics has made available the broadest spectrum of literature from around the globe. Each affordable volume reflects Oxford's commitment to scholarship, providing the most accurate text plus a wealth of other valuable features, including expert introductions by leading authorities, voluminous notes to clarify the text, up-to-date bibliographies for further study, and much more.
What constitutes the ideal structure of a state and the moral foundation of justice within a society? Cicero, a prominent Roman statesman and orator, utilizes the framework of Platonic dialogue to synthesize Greek political theory with the practical realities of the Roman Republic. He argues that the stability of a nation depends upon the virtue of its leaders and the adherence to a universal, natural law that transcends human legislation. This work serves as a critical examination of the responsibilities inherent in governance and the ethical requirements for maintaining a functioning republic.
What You Will Find
Scholars and historians regard this volume as a foundational text for understanding the intersection of Roman law and political philosophy. Readers frequently note the academic density of the prose, which is balanced by the inclusion of extensive notes and historical context provided by the Oxford World's Classics series.
Page Count:
288
Publication Date:
2009-01-01
Publisher:
Oxford University Press
ISBN-10:
019954011X
ISBN-13:
9780199540112
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