What Is The Purpose Of Cicero's Speech On The Manilian Law?

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Cicero’s de imperio Cn. Pompei, or “On the command of Gnaeus Pompeius,” clearly endorses the passing of the Manilian Law, which gave Pompey command of the war against Mithridates VI. However, the speech also serves other, less obvious purposes. In order to explore the reasons behind the speech, the question, “What is the purpose of Cicero’s speech on the Manilian Law?” was entered into ChatGPT. This is the answer it provided: ChatGPT’s answer, though noticeably flawed in some areas, correctly states the obvious purpose of this speech, which is that it endorses Pompey to lead the war against Mithridates, though it fails to mention the purpose of the speech in the context of Cicero’s political career. Moreover, it provides some correct information about the content of the speech, though it lacks depth and devotes too much attention to minor aspects of the speech, which subsequently leads to a failure in capturing Cicero’s true intentions while delivering the speech. Immediately, ChatGPT is incorrect in saying this speech was delivered to the Roman Senate. It was actually delivered to an assembly of the Roman people. Cicero begins his speech by saying, “Although I have always particularly enjoyed the sight of you thronging this place, and have always …show more content…

Cicero’s speech was also used as a tool in advancing his political career, especially in terms of his future consulship, a position that requires the good will of many people in Rome. It is crucial to understand that this law was certainly going to be passed, with or without Cicero’s support. Also, it is important to note that this was Cicero’s first public speech to the people, mentioned when he says this is his first time speaking on the rostra (de imperio Cn. Pompei 1), so this served to introduce himself to the popular realm of Rome at this time. With this knowledge, Cicero’s decision to give this speech goes beyond simply wanting Pompey to be