Teaching Cicero's Laelius de Amicitia

Abstract

In terms of content Cicero's Laelius de Amicitia recommends itself for the classroom and can ease the transition from artificial to original Latin. Organizing such a course around the contextualization of friendship challenges students to define friendship both for themselves and for the Romans across the lifespan. Contemporary research into the nature and function of friendship underscores the complexity of the relationship. In addition, applying Robert Butler's theory of the life review to this essay illuminates Cicero's composing this discussion of friendship within the context of his own old age.