The Life of Cicero Volume I Chapter 3 - The Condition of Rome

In which the narrative reflects upon the turbulent times of Rome during Cicero’s youth, delineating the fierce rivalry of Marius and Sulla, and the profound political turmoil that shaped Cicero’s lifelong devotion to the ideals of the Republic. It contemplates Cicero’s steadfast hope for the restoration of liberty within the ancient limits of Roman tradition, even as the Republic teetered on the brink of irrevocable change under the shadow of military power.