Source edition
Cicero. M. Tulli Ciceronis Orationes, Vol. VI. Clark, Albert Curtis, editor. Oxford: Clarendon Press, 1918.
Source data
Perseus Digital Library · CC BY-SA (per Perseus's terms)
Cloned and adapted by Humanitext, with ongoing edits.
Summary
This work is a speech delivered by the Roman statesman and orator Cicero to defend King Deiotarus of Galatia against the accusation of plotting to assassinate Julius Caesar. Held in the unusual setting of Caesar's private residence, the trial begins with Cicero confessing his unease under these circumstances while appealing to Caesar's fairness and clemency. Cicero first explains that Deiotarus's past support for Pompey during the civil war was an unavoidable decision driven by confusion and the authority of the Senate. He then systematically refutes the specific accusations of the assassination plot and other charges, pointing out the unnaturalness of the alleged plan, the contradictions of the accusers, and the King's noble character. Furthermore, he fiercely denounces the immorality of the accusers, who incited a slave to accuse his own master. Finally, emphasizing the King's deep gratitude for Caesar's favors, Cicero implores Caesar to deliver a merciful judgment that guarantees safety rather than ruin.