Abstract

NOTARI, Tamás. Cum dignitate otium. Remarks on Cicero's speech in defence of Sestius. Fundamina (Pretoria) [online]. 2016, vol.22, n.2, pp.273-289. ISSN 2411-7870.  http://dx.doi.org/10.17159/2411-7870/2016/v22n2a5.

In this paper, first, we analysed the historical-legal background of the speech, which provided an insight into the events that evoked and followed Cicero's exile and calling him home. After that, it was worth paying attention to the thought of philosophy of the state articulated in Pro Sestio as Cicero determines the notion of optimates destined to govern the state by taking an individual approach - adjusting to the rhetorical situation but being true to his political conviction. In this respect, Cicero defined the goal that guides decent citizens (optimus quisque) in public life as cum dignitate otium, which crystallises in two keywords: dignitas, expressing moral values, firmness of mind, strength of character and dignity, and otium, the interest in material well-being, security (in law) and public tranquillity.

Keywords : Cicero; Pro Sestio; dignitas; otium.

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