Audiobooks by Cicero | LoveReading

Civil War in the Roman Republic: A time of great civil, military and political strife that mirrors o

While compiling and narrating these speeches, I've often been struck by how easily they could be translated into a modern day context. Frequently, a speech has reminded me of the news of the day, somewhere in the world. Nowhere has this been more evident than in these speeches. Given over two thousand years ago, every single one could be applied to situations and people today with barely any revision. The late republic (from about 133BCE) was characterized by civil discontent, with three Servile Wars, two attempted coups, a Social War between Rome and Italian allies, and endless conflict. We begin in 110-106BCE with two speeches railing against the fixed social order and corruption of the highborn, as well as the scorn poured on those of lower birth. We then jump to the Cataline Conspiracy in 63 BCE, an attempt to overthrow the Senate that was only defeated at great cost, and continued to be a symbol of Rome’s troubles. Here we see Cataline exhorting his troops, Cato arguing for harsh punishment, C icero calling Cataline every contemptible name under the sun, and the only known speech of Julius Caesar, in which he argues for a sensible and jurisprudential response to this great crime. Cicero’s leadership of Rome is then documented, covering the beliefs and actions that saw him exiled and then returned to power by the Senate. Finally, we have Mark Antony’s hagiographic oration of Julius Caesar, and then two speeches of Cicero’s railing against the perversion of Caesar’s legacy that Mark Antony was putting into practice, and the need to hold onto tradition for the right reasons, not simply to cover the misdeeds of politicians. Antony became Consul in this time, and Cicero saw in him the final downfall of the republic, which lasted for only seventeen years after this moment before becoming an Empire.

Caius Marius, Caius Memmius, Catiline, Cato The Younger, Cicero, Julius Caesar, Mark Anthony (Author), Charles Featherstone (Narrator)

Audiobook

Civil War in the Roman Republic, 106 to 44BCE: A time of great civil, military and political strife

IntroductionWhile compiling and narrating these speeches, I've often been struck by how easily they could be translated into a modern day context. Frequently, a speech has reminded me of the news of the day, somewhere in the world. Nowhere has this been more evident than in these speeches. Given over two thousand years ago, every single one could be applied to situations and people today with barely any revision. The late republic (from about 133BCE) was characterized by civil discontent, with three Servile Wars, two attempted coups, a Social War between Rome and Italian allies, and endless conflict. We begin in 110-106BCE with two speeches railing against the fixed social order and corruption of the highborn, as well as the scorn poured on those of lower birth. We then jump to the Cataline Conspiracy in 63 BCE, an attempt to overthrow the Senate that was only defeated at great cost, and continued to be a symbol of Rome’s troubles. Here we see Cataline exhorting his troops, Cato arguing for harsh punishment, C icero calling Cataline every contemptible name under the sun, and the only known speech of Julius Caesar, in which he argues for a sensible and jurisprudential response to this great crime. Cicero’s leadership of Rome is then documented, covering the beliefs and actions that saw him exiled and then returned to power by the Senate. Finally, we have Mark Antony’s hagiographic oration of Julius Caesar, and then two speeches of Cicero’s railing against the perversion of Caesar’s legacy that Mark Antony was putting into practice, and the need to hold onto tradition for the right reasons, not simply to cover the misdeeds of politicians. Antony became Consul in this time, and Cicero saw in him the final downfall of the republic, which lasted for only seventeen years after this moment before becoming an Empire.

Caius Marius, Caius Memmius, Catiline, Cato The Younger, Cicero, Julius Caesar, Mark Antony (Author), Charles Featherstone (Narrator)

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The Graeco-Roman Era

Five speeches from the legendary orators Alexander the Great, Julius Caesar, Cicero, and Pericles. 431 BCE: Pericles’ Funeral Oration is a valedictory and eulogy for the great age of Athenian democracy. Reported by Thucydides, it was given at the first annual public funeral for casualties of the Peloponnesian War. That war ended twenty-seven years later with the democratic government of Athens overthrown by an oligarchy known as The Four Hundred. 324BCE: Two speeches by Alexander the Great, reported by the historian Arrian in his Anabasis. Both speeches are a direct address to his army on embarking on a new campaign. The first was given in Opis, Mesopotamia, when rallying his armies to start a new campaign into Persia. The army took heart, and successfully conquered the Persian Empire, adding it to Alexander’s many existing conquests. The second speech is given after the first campaign is over. This time Alexander is ready to move into the Indian subcontinent. After travelling across the known world, the entire army took the offer to quit fighting and go home. This leaves Alexander understandably upset, and produces history’s most finely worded example of saying “After all I’ve done for you! Well, you can all get stuffed then, you bunch of ingrates. I hope you choke.” In 63BCE, the Cataline Conspiracy shook Rome. It was a deep shock to the Roman system, and risked civil war. Included here are speeches by the Consul Cicero and the only extant speech of Julius Caesar. Cicero’s First Speech is a rabble-rousing, impassioned, and slightly unhinged attack upon Cataline and his associates. It speaks to the outrage of the body politic and the masses. Caesar’s speech is a jurisprudential appeal to create no new laws to punish these crimes. Caesar argues that the republic would be ultimately harmed if they were not punished only under existing laws, as people remember the punishment but not the crime.

Alexander the Great, Cicero, Julius Caesar, Pericles (Author), Charles Featherstone (Narrator)

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On the Nature of the Gods

'On the Nature of the Gods' by Cicero is a profound philosophical work that delves into the nature and existence of the gods. In this thought-provoking treatise, Cicero engages in a series of dialogues between representatives of different philosophical schools, each presenting their arguments regarding the divine. Through these discussions, Cicero explores the various theories of the gods, their attributes, and their role in the universe. Drawing on the teachings of prominent Greek philosophers such as Epicurus, Stoicism, and the Academic school, Cicero skillfully presents the contrasting viewpoints on the nature of the gods. He navigates through complex philosophical arguments, dissecting each perspective with intellectual rigor and eloquence. The dialogues explore questions of theology, ethics, and the human relationship with the divine, offering readers a comprehensive overview of the different philosophical approaches to understanding and interpreting the gods. Read in English, unabridged.

Cicero (Author), George Easton (Narrator)

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Cicero's Brutus

'Cicero's Brutus' is a captivating historical dialogue penned by the renowned Roman philosopher and statesman, Marcus Tullius Cicero. Set during the twilight years of the Roman Republic, the narrative revolves around a profound conversation between Cicero and his intellectual companions, Brutus and Atticus, as they reflect upon the illustrious lives and achievements of Rome's most eminent orators. Through a series of stimulating discussions, Cicero embarks on a compelling exploration of rhetoric, eloquence, and the art of public speaking. With the intent to pay homage to the great orators of the past, Cicero delves into the lives and oratorical prowess of renowned figures such as Crassus, Sulpicius, and Antonius, meticulously dissecting their rhetorical styles, memorable speeches, and the impact they had on Roman society. Read in English, unabridged.

Cicero (Author), George Easton (Narrator)

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Tusculan Disputations

'Tusculan Disputations' by Cicero is a captivating philosophical work that dives into the realms of human emotions, suffering, and the pursuit of tranquility. In this profound dialogue-based treatise, Cicero explores the nature of human existence and offers philosophical insights to help individuals navigate the challenges and tribulations of life. The book takes its name from the town of Tusculum, where Cicero is depicted as engaging in discussions with his friends on various philosophical topics. Through these dialogues, Cicero tackles fundamental questions regarding grief, pain, fear, and the pursuit of happiness. He draws upon the wisdom of ancient Greek philosophers, including Epicurus, Stoics, and Peripatetics, to shed light on these topics. Read in English, unabridged.

Cicero (Author), George Easton (Narrator)

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On the Commonwealth

'On the Commonwealth' by Cicero is a profound political and philosophical treatise that explores the ideal form of government and the principles of a just society. In this insightful work, Cicero engages in a series of dialogues to examine different systems of governance, the nature of justice, and the role of individuals within a state. Through compelling conversations between prominent Roman statesmen, Cicero presents contrasting viewpoints on political theory, drawing on the teachings of Greek philosophers such as Plato and Aristotle. He explores the merits and flaws of various forms of government, including monarchy, aristocracy, and democracy, while considering the ideal balance of power and the responsibilities of both rulers and citizens. Read in English, unabridged.

Cicero (Author), George Easton (Narrator)

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700 Quotations from Ancient Philosophy

Plato, Aristotle, Marcus Aurelius, and Cicero are some of the famous names whose wit and wisdom are included in this audiobook, ‘700 Quotations from Ancient Philosophy’. This group of Greek philosophers, Roman Statesmen and Emperors is responsible for some of the world's best-known quotes, including 'It is the mark of an educated mind to be able to entertain a thought without accepting it.' and 'Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a harder battle.' Their wit and wisdom continue to inspire, educate, and entertain to this day thus making this collection ideal for those needing some philosophical guidance. - Plato, Aristotle, Marcus Aurelius, Epictetus, Cicero, Seneca the Younger, and Heraclitus are among histories most famous soldiers, politicians, poets, writers and philosophers. The Ancient Greek philosopher, Plato (c.428-347 B.C.) is one of the most influential figures in the entire history of Western thought. Aristotle (384–322 BC) was a Greek philosopher whose works shaped centuries of philosophy. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest philosophers of all time. Seneca the Younger (c. 4 BC – 65 AD), usually known as Seneca, was a philosopher, statesman, and dramatist from Ancient Rome. Marcus Aurelius Antoninus (121 – 180) was a philosopher and Emperor of the Roman empire.

Aristotle, Cicero, Epictetus, Heraclitus, Marcus Aurelius, Plato, Seneca The Younger (Author), Brad Carty (Narrator)

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600 Quotes from Political Philosophy

Friedrich Nietzsche, Henry David Thoreau, and Karl Marx are among the famous names whose wit and wisdom are included in this wonderful collection, '600 Quotes from Political Philosophy'. A mixture of ancient and modern philosophers from China, Rome, Germany, and France, these world-renowned giants of philosophy remain just as influential and important as ever. This carefully crafted collection is guaranteed to inspire, amuse, and entertain, and it is ideal for those needing some philosophical guidance. - From impacting world politics and intellectual thought to influencing modern philosophy, these philosophers are among the most quoted people in the world.

Alexis De Tocqueville, Cicero, Confucius, Friedrich Wilhelm Nietzsche, Henry David Thoreau, Karl Marx (Author), Brad Carty (Narrator)

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100 Quotes by Cicero

‘100 Quotes by Cicero’ is a collection of thoughts and reflections from a man who rose to power and fell to grace. Musing on life, philosophy, and power, Cicero employs his epistemological beliefs to create incisive musings that are as relevant today as they were in Ancient Rome. A fascinating and quotable book for those with an interest in history or philosophy. - Born into a wealthy family, Marcus Tullius Cicero (106BC – 46BC) was a Roman statesman, lawyer, Academic Skeptic, philosopher, and writer. After completing his education in both Greece and Rome, he served in the army before establishing himself as a powerful legal orator and representative. A firm believer in the republican values of the time, Cicero was instrumental in quashing the Second Catilinarian Conspiracy, and was subsequently invited by Caesar to join the First Triumvirate. However, Cicero turned on the Emperor and was soon exiled. After being granted a pardon, he made an enemy of Mark Anthony and was eventually executed. His most famous works include the poems ‘On His Consulship,’ and ‘On His Life and Times.’

Cicero (Author), Brad Carty (Narrator)

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400 Quotations from Ancient Roman Philosophers

‘400 Quotations from Ancient Roman Philosophers’ is a collection of quotes from Ancient Rome’s greatest philosophers, whose unparalleled wit and wisdom still resonate today. This carefully crafted compilation includes the great minds of Marcus Aurelius, Epictetus, Cicero, and Seneca the Younger, and is guaranteed to educate and entertain. ‘400 Quotations from Ancient Roman Philosophers’ is ideal for those needing a bit of extra philosophical guidance. - Marcus Aurelius (121–180) was a Roman emperor and philosopher. He was the last emperor of the Pax Romana. Epictetus (50-135 AD) was a Greek philosopher who was renowned for his teachings about determinism and moral responsibility. Cicero (106-43 BC) was a Roman statesman, scholar and philosopher and he is considered one of Rome's greatest orators. Seneca the Younger (4 BC–65 AD) was a Roman philosopher, statesman and dramatist. As a writer, he is best known for plays such as ‘Medea’, ‘Thyestes’, and ‘Phaedra’.

Cicero, Epictetus, Marcus Aurelius, Seneca The Younger (Author), Brad Carty (Narrator)

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Tusculan Disputations (Unabridged)

This audiobook is narrated by a digital voice. Fear grips your heart. Pain lingers in your soul. Grief clouds your thoughts. Does happiness seem an impossible dream? In the tumultuous years of the Roman Republic, Cicero penned a timeless guide to conquering these very anxieties. Through insightful dialogues, he draws upon the wisdom of Greek philosophers, particularly the Stoics, to illuminate a path towards inner peace and a fulfilling life. 'Tusculan Disputations' confronts the fear of death head-on, offering solace and reason to quiet the trembling voice within. It equips you to endure pain with fortitude and navigate grief's stormy waters with grace. It teaches you to master your emotions and find true joy, not in fleeting pleasures, but in the depths of your own virtuous character. Embark on this philosophical journey with Cicero and discover the resilience and wisdom that lie dormant within you.

Cicero (Author), Digital Voice Marcus G (Narrator)

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