Cicero's Tusculan Disputations

This comprehensive anthology of Cicero's works contains his Tuscalan Disputations, his treatises on the divine, and the 'De re Publica' - otherwise known as On the Commonwealth. Originally conceived by Cicero as a method of popularising the Stoical form of philosophy to which he subscribed, the Tusculan Disputations explain, in five books on specific topics, the principles and merits of the Stoic outlook on life. The benefits of adopting the Stoical mindset, from a rational, measured reaction to physical pain and illness, to the mental anguish of losing a loved one, are examples of what Cicero explores. Although the Disputations chiefly convey thoughts of other, prior thinkers, they contain Cicero's distinct voice on the subject. Written with the literate clarity and flair which defines the author's body of work, the Disputations persuasively identify, discuss and expound qualities of the philosophy to which Cicero ascribed his mentality in life.