Well, good luck to you both. Rome will be the winner…
““Well, good luck to you both. Rome will be the winner whoever is the victor'. Cicero began to move away but then checked himself, and a slight frown crossed his face. He returned to Catulus. 'One more thing, if I may? Who proposed this widening of the franchise?' 'Caesar' Although Latin is a language rich in subtlety and metaphor, I cannot command the words, either in that tongue or even in Greek, to describe Cicero's expression at that moment. 'Dear gods' he said in a tone of utter shock. 'Is it possible he means to stand himself?' 'Of course not. That would be ridiculous. He's far too young. He's thirty-six. He's not yet even been elected praetor' 'Yes, but even so, in my opinion, you would be well advised to reconvene your college as quickly as possible and go back to the existing method of selection.' 'That is impossible' 'Why?' 'The bill to change the franchise was laid before the people this morning' 'By whom?' 'Labienus' 'Ah!' Cicero clapped his hand to his forehead.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Cicero’s shocked reaction reveals political maneuvering, fear of change, and the tension between tradition and reform.
In simple terms: Cicero’s surprise shows fear of political change and power struggles.
Key Takeaway
Recognize fear behind resistance to reform.
Themes
politics
fear
tradition
reform
Mood
historical
dramatic
Type
analytical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- parliamentary debates
- policy reforms
- organizational change
Key Concepts
history
rhetoric
power dynamics
Questions to Reflect On
- What underlying fears drive opposition?
- How can dialogue address both tradition and progress?
A Different Perspective
Resistance may stem from genuine concern, not just obstinacy.