Cicero's Brutus or History of Famous Orators; also His Orator, or Accomplished Speaker.

In this engaging dialogue, Cicero gathers with his friends Atticus and Brutus beneath the statue of Plato in his Roman garden to discuss the art of speaking. The conversation weaves brief yet masterful portraits of the most celebrated Greek and Roman orators, from early poets to contemporary statesmen, offering a compact history of eloquence. As the speakers reminisce, the work also serves as a subtle chronicle of Roman political life, making the discussion a window onto the era’s public affairs.

Soon after, at Brutus’ request, Cicero penned a companion treatise that lays out his own ideal of the perfect orator, detailing the qualities of style, moral character, and persuasive technique. The text reflects his seasoned perspective, written in the twilight of his career, and includes poignant personal notes—such as his sorrow at the death of the esteemed jurist Hortensius, a colleague whose loss he feels deeply. Listeners will find both the historical survey and the practical guide a vivid illustration of ancient rhetorical mastery.