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Julius Caesar divorced his wife Pompeia, but declared at…

“Julius Caesar divorced his wife Pompeia, but declared at the trial that he knew nothing of what was alleged against her and Clodius. When asked why, in that case, he had divorced her, he replied: Because I would have the chastity of my wife clear even of suspicion.” quote by Plutarch
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“Julius Caesar divorced his wife Pompeia, but declared at the trial that he knew nothing of what was alleged against her and Clodius. When asked why, in that case, he had divorced her, he replied: Because I would have the chastity of my wife clear even of suspicion.”

Plutarch

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Caesar claimed innocence and divorced his wife to protect her reputation from suspicion.

In simple terms: He divorced to keep his wife's reputation clean.

Key Takeaway

Protect reputations, even at personal cost.

Themes

honor reputation marriage

Mood

thoughtful historical

Type

ethical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • public scandal
  • legal defense
  • family honor

Key Concepts

political strategy personal integrity

Questions to Reflect On

  • Is reputation more important than truth?
  • How far should one go to protect another's honor?
A Different Perspective

Divorce may not fully clear suspicion; public perception persists.

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