Cicero's De Divinatione

Definition

Cicero's De Divinatione is a philosophical work that discusses the nature and validity of divination, offering arguments both for and against its practice. Written in the 1st century BCE, it reflects Cicero's exploration of different methods of divination used in the Greco-Roman world, providing insights into how people sought to understand the will of the gods and fate through various techniques.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Cicero presents two main characters in De Divinatione, who engage in a dialogue that reflects different perspectives on the validity and nature of divination.
2. The text argues that while some methods of divination may have a basis in tradition, they often lack empirical evidence and can be misleading.
3. Cicero emphasizes rationality and skepticism, suggesting that human reason should guide decisions rather than reliance solely on divinatory practices.
4. The work is divided into two books, with Book I focusing on arguments supporting divination and Book II presenting counterarguments.
5. Cicero's reflections in De Divinatione highlight the cultural significance of divination in Roman society, where it was seen as a way to connect with the divine and seek guidance on important matters.

Review Questions

• How does Cicero's De Divinatione illustrate the differing views on the reliability of divination in Greco-Roman culture?
  • Cicero's De Divinatione illustrates differing views on divination by presenting a dialogue between characters who represent contrasting perspectives. One character advocates for the validity of certain divinatory methods based on tradition and historical practices, while the other character raises skepticism about their empirical basis and potential for deception. This interplay reflects a broader cultural discourse in Greco-Roman society regarding the reliance on supernatural signs versus human reasoning in decision-making.
• What role does rationality play in Cicero's arguments within De Divinatione concerning methods of divination?
  • Rationality plays a crucial role in Cicero's arguments within De Divinatione as he advocates for critical thinking over blind faith in divinatory practices. He encourages readers to question the foundations of divination and to use logic and reason when making decisions. By doing so, Cicero positions rational thought as a necessary counterbalance to superstition, suggesting that while divination may hold cultural significance, it should not replace informed judgment.
• Evaluate how Cicero's treatment of divination in De Divinatione reflects broader philosophical trends of his time regarding fate and free will.
  • Cicero's treatment of divination in De Divinatione reflects broader philosophical trends concerning fate and free will by engaging with questions about human agency in relation to divine influence. He navigates between accepting some forms of divination as meaningful while emphasizing that individuals should exercise their free will when confronted with predictions or signs. This nuanced perspective highlights a tension in Roman thought where traditional beliefs about fate coexist with emerging ideas about personal responsibility and rationality, ultimately encouraging readers to find a balance between these concepts.

Related terms

Augury: A method of divination that interprets the will of the gods by studying the flight patterns of birds.

Haruspicy: A form of divination that involves examining the entrails of sacrificed animals, particularly the liver, to gain insights into the future.

Oracles: Sacred sites or individuals through which divine advice or prophecy was communicated, often leading to significant decisions in Greco-Roman society.