Cicero's De Divinatione

Definition

Cicero's De Divinatione is a philosophical work that examines the nature of divination and its significance in Roman society. In this text, Cicero discusses the various forms of divination, explores their validity, and considers how they relate to human understanding of fate and the divine. This work reflects the broader role religion played in ancient Rome, as divination was deeply intertwined with political, social, and personal decisions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Cicero wrote De Divinatione in 44 BCE, shortly after the assassination of Julius Caesar, a time when the Roman state was grappling with political upheaval and uncertainty.
2. The work is structured as a dialogue between Cicero and his brother, Quintus, allowing for a discussion of different viewpoints on the legitimacy of divination.
3. Cicero argues that while divination has its merits, it is not an absolute way to predict the future and can be influenced by human interpretation and error.
4. De Divinatione highlights the tension between rational thought and belief in divine intervention, which was a significant aspect of Roman intellectual life.
5. The text serves as both a defense of traditional religious practices in Rome and a critique of excessive reliance on divination in political decision-making.

Review Questions

• How does Cicero's De Divinatione reflect the relationship between religion and politics in ancient Rome?
  • Cicero's De Divinatione reflects the intricate connection between religion and politics in ancient Rome by showcasing how divination was used as a tool for making political decisions. The work illustrates how leaders often sought divine guidance to justify their actions or decisions, particularly during tumultuous times like after Caesar's assassination. By discussing various forms of divination, Cicero highlights its significance in Roman governance and public life.
• Evaluate Cicero's arguments regarding the validity of divination presented in De Divinatione.
  • Cicero presents a nuanced evaluation of divination in De Divinatione, acknowledging its historical importance while questioning its reliability. He argues that while some aspects of divination may hold truth, human interpretation can lead to errors. This critical approach reflects his philosophical stance that emphasizes rationality over blind faith in omens or predictions, suggesting that people should be cautious about relying solely on divine signs when making significant decisions.
• Discuss how De Divinatione contributes to our understanding of Roman attitudes toward fate and free will.
  • De Divinatione offers valuable insights into Roman attitudes toward fate and free will by examining how divinatory practices influenced people's perception of their destinies. Cicero's work suggests a complex interplay where individuals believed in divine signs while also recognizing their own agency in decision-making. This tension illustrates a broader philosophical debate within Roman society about the extent to which fate is predetermined versus shaped by individual actions, highlighting an enduring inquiry into human existence and morality.

Related terms

Augury: A form of divination that involves interpreting the behavior of birds to gain insight into the future or determine the will of the gods.

Haruspicy: A type of divination that involves examining the entrails of sacrificed animals to predict future events or seek guidance from the gods.

Omens: Signs or phenomena that are interpreted as prophetic, often associated with divine intervention or messages from the gods.