Introduction
Cicero’s actions during his prominent career in the Senate during 83BC - 43BC assisted in the collapse of the Ancient Roman Republic due to distinct flaws within the system and Cicero’s criticism of particular leaders during the time, such as Julius Caesar. Cicero’s abilities in his earlier years, particularly in law allowed for his entry into the senate despite his status as a novus homo or ‘new man’, and equestrian beliefs furthered his support for the senate, depicting him as the epitome of the ambitious Roman politician. His education in rhetoric and writing prepared him for a successful and influential political career, as he was able to intelligently manipulate people toward his causes. The highlights of Cicero’s political career through his rise in the senatorial ranks allowed him to implement new reforms, but he needed more senatorial support for this. Cicero went to great lengths to gain favour and power from influential figures such as Pompey to boost his own political positioning within the senate as an optimate and supporter of the republic. Finally, the Catiline Conspiracies impacted the republic greatly, due to Catiline’s intent actions toward destroying the Republic, which allowed Cicero to be portrayed as a saviour, placing him in a particularly advantageous political position to attempt to save the Roman Republic.