Reinventing the concept of homo novus in Rome: Cicero as Horace’s role model

Abstract

ABSTRACT This paper identifies similarities between Horace’s and Cicero’s use of the termHomo novusas a positive connotation, which contrasts with the then prevailing view of the outsider as a negative element. We suggest that Horace might have drawn on elements from Cicero’s works to support the defense of his position within Roman society.

Keywords

• Roman social orders: equestrians
• novi homines
• Auctoritas
• Horace
• Cicero