Lexis

Poetica, retorica e comunicazione nella tradizione classica

L’otiosa senectus di Cicerone

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Abstract

This article investigates the concept of senectus in Cicero’s Cato Maior, in relation to the author’s life and his views on otium and negotium. In order to do so, the philosophical sources behind his description of old age and death will be clarified and explored, aiming to delineate a unitary perspective on Cicero’s representation of the role of the senex. Old age will thus emerge as a peculiar state of βίος σύνθετος, holding a key role in Cicero’s political perspective, and as an essential moment of transition for the after world’s otium and glory.


open access | peer reviewed

Presentato: 30 Luglio 2025 | Accettato: 20 Ottobre 2025 | Pubblicato 26 Giugno 2026 | Lingua: it

Keywords AuctoritasOld ageCatoOtiumCicero