Cicerone e la geografia dellʼimpero nellʼorazione De imperio Cn. Pompei

Abstract

In his De imperio Cn. Pompei (66 BCE), Cicero supports the law proposal by the tribune C. Manilius to entrust Pompey with an extraordinary command over the third Mithridatic war. The article analyses the importance of geography in the orator’s argumentation for its economical and political implications. First, by sketching a centre-periphery dynamic, Cicero stresses the vital role of the provinces (especially Asia that is now under attack) for Rome’s own welfare and supply with goods; then, in his celebration of Pompey’s military achievements, Cicero insists on their worldwide extent, presenting him as the only one who can bring the Pontic war to an end.

Keywords

• Cicero. Economy. Mithridatic Wars. Pompey. Roman Provinces