Cicero: On the Commonwealth and On the Laws

Cicero’s On the Commonwealth and On the Laws were his first and most substantial attempt to adapt Greek theories of political life to the circumstances of the Roman Republic. They represent Cicero’s vision of an ideal society, and remain his most important works of political philosophy. On the Commonwealth survives only in part, and On the Laws was never completed. The present volume offers a scholarly reconstruction of the fragments of On the Commonwealth and a masterly translation of both dialogues, newly prepared by James E. G. Zetzel, Professor of Classics at Columbia University. The texts are supported by a concise introduction, notes, synopsis, biographical notes and bibliography, all designed to assist students in politics, philosophy, ancient history, law and classics.

• New and readable translation based on a thorough revision of the Latin text • Introduction and supporting materials specifically designed for students of politics and philosophy • Presents important texts on theory of government and of law that have frequently been passed over for lack of a usable edition

Editor’s note; Introduction; Chronology; Bibliography; Text and translation; Synopsis; On the Commonwealth: Book I; Book II; Book III; Book IV; Book V; Book VI; Unplaced fragments; On the Laws: Book I; Book II; Book III; Fragments; Biographical notes; Index of fragments; General index.