Event Summary
Cicero (age 62–63) delivered a series of speeches known as the Philippics against Mark Antony (age 39–40) in 44–43 BCE. Modeled after Demosthenes’ orations against Philip of Macedon, these speeches denounced Antony as a threat to liberty. They inflamed public opinion but ultimately cost Cicero his life.
Background
- Julius Caesar’s assassination in March 44 BCE left Rome in turmoil.
- Antony, as consul, positioned himself as Caesar’s successor.
- Octavian, Caesar’s 19-year-old heir, entered the political arena.
- Cicero sought to balance Octavian’s rise against Antony’s ambitions.
- He turned to oratory as his weapon.
The Philippics Begin
- Cicero delivered the First Philippic in September 44 BCE.
- He criticized Antony’s misuse of Caesar’s powers.
- In later speeches, he called Antony a criminal and tyrant.
- He urged the Senate to resist Antony’s authority.
- The speeches rallied senators and citizens to his cause.
War with Antony
- Cicero praised Octavian as a defender of the Republic.
- Senate declared Antony an enemy of the state in 43 BCE.
- Octavian and consuls Hirtius and Pansa marched against Antony.
- Antony was defeated at Mutina but survived.
- Cicero misjudged Octavian’s long-term ambitions.
Cicero’s Fate
- The Second Triumvirate formed later in 43 BCE.
- Antony, Octavian, and Lepidus agreed to proscriptions.
- Antony demanded Cicero’s death as part of the bargain.
- Cicero was captured and executed in December 43 BCE.
- His head and hands were displayed in the Forum.
Legacy
- The Philippics showed the power of oratory in Roman politics.
- Cicero’s words revived republican ideals but hastened his end.
- His praise of Octavian ironically aided Augustus’ rise.
- Antony’s hatred of Cicero proved fatal to his foe.
- The speeches survived, shaping Western rhetoric for centuries.
Why It Matters
Cicero’s Philippics were the Republic’s last roar against tyranny. His speeches against Antony championed liberty and stirred Rome, but they doomed him once Octavian and Antony allied. The Philippics remain a reminder of how words can shake empires, inspire resistance, and yet bring ruin to the speaker who dares defy power.
References:
- Michael Grant, The Roman Emperors: A Biographical Guide to the Rulers of Imperial Rome, 31 BC–AD 476. 1985.
- Scarre, Christopher. Chronicle of the Roman Emperors: The Reign-by-Reign Record of the Rulers of Imperial Rome. 1995.
- David S. Potter, Emperors of Rome: The Story of Imperial Rome from Julius Caesar to the Last Emperor. 2011.
About Dr. Gerti Tashko, MD
Dr. Gerti Tashko, MD, is an endocrinologist in Montgomery County, Maryland. He is uniquely quadruple board-certified in endocrinology, lipidology, hypertension, and obesity medicine. His practice delivers root-cause-focused metabolic and endocrine care, available virtually and in person. He uses advanced diagnostics, personalized nutrition, and preventive medicine to improve long-term health.
