- Published: November 12, 2022
- Updated: November 12, 2022
- University / College: The Australian National University
- Level: Secondary School
- Language: English
- Downloads: 31
College: Cicero’s Invention I choose to analyze section 149 whereby Cicero seeks to bring out the innocence and defenselessness of Sextus Roscius. The section follows the standard parts of orations as outlined in On Invention handbook. In the exordium, Cicero manages to capture the audiences attention through introducing the plight of the under age defendant in court. In addition, he states that Sextus is vulnerable because his age, and thus cannot defend himself. He further states that his life is threatened by the hostile society in which he was born (Cicero 126). The subject of discussion is clearly and concisely stated when Cicero tries to look into the background of justice in the family institution. In narration, the arguments to be developed in court are properly articulated through bring out the vulnerability of Sextus Roscius and how the court has the obligation to protect him from further abuse by the society. In confirming the case, Cicero indicates the importance of his arguments when he highlights the need of protecting innocent men fort the good of the society.
In chapter 149 Cicero is able to use rhetorics to create relationship between emotions and justice. His rhetorics is morally grounded and incorporates the moral problems that emanate from society’s emotional manipulation (Cicero 126). As a lawyer, his choice of words is aimed at making and directing the audiences minds and emotions towards a certain conclusion. Ability to apply Sextus Roscius plight to the entire community indicates flexibility of the course of justice he wishes to pursue. The final sentiments in the chapter are emotional arouse sympathy and motivate the audience when he speaks of the harm the society would be exposed to if justice was to be taken into peoples hands.
Works Cited
Cicero, Tullius M. The Orations of Marcus Tullius Cicero, literally translated by C. D. Yonge. London. George Bell & Sons, 1903. Print.