Cicero and Pompey
A political friendship between Pompey and Cicero was a difficult one, with both men more concerned with their own interests than that of each others. Cicero began wanting to forge an amicitia with Pompey, as he was seen as a strong political partner, as shown by Cicero heaping praise in a speech to the citizens on Gnaeus Pompeius’s command in 66BC; “For I think that these four qualities are indispensable in a great general, - knowledge of military affairs, valour, authority and good fortune… But now, what language can be found equal to the valour of Cnaeus Pompeius? What statement can any one make which shall be either worthy of him, or new to you, or unknown to any one?” (Cicero, cited in Crane, 2014). This friendship would be able to provide Cicero with the security he strived for from the senate. (Barnard, 2011)
Watch a conversation between Cicero and Pompey!
Due to his status as a novus homo, he felt threatened by the possibility of his status causing his inability to achieve political position. Cicero managed to convince Pompey of the benefits of the advantageous connections, and the friendship was formed. However Pompey drove a steep bargain - when he was away, Cicero was to stay in Rome and support Pompey’s interests. Sally Knights, head of the classics department, and author stated that; “To secure Pompey’s backing, Cicero had to go further and promise to represent Pompey’s interests in Rome while he was away fighting…” (Knights et.al, 2006).
Learn about the friendship between Cicero and Pompey in the early days here!
This is shown through two main actions taken by Cicero, namely by shutting down Crassus’ two plans involving controlling land and annexing Egypt, both to further his own wealth, and turn the tides of popularity further his way. Though tense, and demanding, the friendship between Pompey and Cicero did pose its advantages in regards to Cicero’s career as he was able to secure the consulship, which is what Cicero intended for in their friendship, a fact that is supported by head of classics department, and new author Sally Knight, “But Cicero equally realised that he would need the backing of Pompey and votes of his supporters if he were to become consul.” (Knight, et.al, 2006). This made it clear that Cicero needed the amici he was able to gain from friends and supporters to further his political dreams.
Sources
Barnard, J., 2011. The Book of Friendship. London: Machette Digital.
Knights, S., Potter, A. & Woodward, S., 2006. Classical Civilisation for the AQA Specification. London: Rhinegold Publishing Limited.
Yonge, C. & Bohn, H. G., 1856. The Orations of Marcus Tullius Cicero. London: George Bells & Sons.
Knights, S., Potter, A. & Woodward, S., 2006. Classical Civilisation for the AQA Specification. London: Rhinegold Publishing Limited.
Yonge, C. & Bohn, H. G., 1856. The Orations of Marcus Tullius Cicero. London: George Bells & Sons.