Introducing KNOVA — A free reading app with curriculum-aligned passages on History & Science for Grades 3-8Learn More →

Cicero — Reading Comprehension

No ratings yet

Premium Resource

Grades

Rate this resource

Send Feedback / Report an Issue

About This Reader

This engaging history reading passage explores the life and legacy of Cicero, one of ancient Rome’s most influential statesmen, orators, and authors. Students will learn about Cicero’s rise through the Roman political system, his defense of the Republic against corrupt leaders, and his lasting impact on government and law. The passage incorporates key academic vocabulary and primary source references to help students analyze cause and effect, social hierarchy, and the significance of Cicero’s actions in the broader context of Roman and world history. Activities include a multiple-choice quiz, writing prompts, and graphic organizers that encourage critical thinking. A Spanish translation and read aloud audio support diverse learners. This resource aligns with California HSS 6.7 and Common Core ELA RH.6-8.2 standards, making it ideal for classrooms studying ancient civilizations and the foundations of democratic government.

CONTENT PREVIEW

William Blake - Marcus Tullius Cicero - Manchester City Gallery - Tempera on canvas c 1800 — "Marcus Tullius Cicero - Tempera on canvas c 1800" by William Blake / Wikimedia Commons.

Cicero was a leading figure in the late Roman Republic, known for his skill as an orator, statesman, and writer. Born Marcus Tullius Cicero in 106 BCE in Arpinum, a town southeast of Rome, he rose to become a symbol of the Roman Senate and the ideals of the Republic. Cicero’s life and actions provide a window into the political struggles and changing values of ancient Rome.

As a young man, Cicero studied law and philosophy in Rome and Greece. He became famous for his powerful speeches in the law courts, defending citizens against corrupt officials. One of his most famous cases was in 70 BCE, when he prosecuted Gaius Verres, a former governor accused of extortion in Sicily. Cicero’s speeches, called the Verrine Orations, included detailed evidence and persuaded the jury to convict Verres. This case established Cicero’s reputation for defending justice and the rule of law.

Cicero’s political career advanced rapidly. In 63 BCE, he was elected consul, the highest office in the Republic. During his consulship, he uncovered and stopped the Catiline Conspiracy, a plot led by Lucius Sergius Catilina to overthrow the government. Cicero gave a series of speeches, known as the Catilinarian Orations, to the Senate, exposing the danger and rallying support to defend the Republic. Ancient sources, such as Sallust’s account and Cicero’s own letters, describe how Cicero’s actions prevented civil war, though some criticized his harsh treatment of the conspirators. The event highlights the tensions between security and individual rights in Roman politics.

The late Republic was marked by conflict between the Senate and powerful generals like Julius Caesar. Cicero supported the traditional government and tried to protect the constitution from dictatorship. After Caesar’s assassination in 44 BCE, Cicero opposed Mark Antony, delivering the Philippics—a series of speeches attacking Antony’s ambitions. This made Cicero a target. In 43 BCE, he was executed on the orders of Antony and his ally Octavian, ending a career devoted to public service.

Cicero’s legacy endures through his writings on law, philosophy, and government, which influenced later thinkers such as Thomas Jefferson. His efforts to balance tradition and change, and his belief in civic duty, remain central to the study of Roman history. Cicero’s life shows how individuals can shape society through words and actions, even in times of crisis.

Many themes from Cicero’s era, such as debates over power, justice, and the rights of citizens, continue to influence modern governments and political systems today.

Interesting Fact: Cicero coined many Latin phrases still used in law and politics, such as “status quo.”

What year was Cicero born?

106 BCE44 BCE70 BCE63 BCE

Who did Cicero prosecute in Sicily?

Gaius VerresMark AntonyJulius CaesarOctavian

What office did Cicero hold in 63 BCE?

ConsulGeneralGovernorEmperor

Why were the Catilinarian Orations important?

Stopped a plot against RomeCelebrated the RepublicPraised Julius CaesarSupported Mark Antony

What happened after Cicero opposed Mark Antony?

He was executedHe became emperorHe moved to SicilyHe retired

How did Cicero influence later thinkers?