Optimate Opposition to Caesar

Question 1

What is the definition of Optimates? [Cicero, Pro Sestio]

Answer 1

“Those who acted in such a way that their policies found favour with the best people”

This definition is attributed to Cicero in Pro Sestio, 56 BC.

Question 2

What is the definition of Populares? [Cicero, Pro Sestio]

Answer 2

“Those who wanted what they did and what they said to be pleasing to the crowd”

This definition is also from Cicero in Pro Sestio, 56 BC.

Question 3

What were Caesar’s demands regarding his provinces? [Suet]

Answer 3

He offered to give up most of his provinces if he could keep “at least Illyricum and one legion until he became consul”

This information comes from Suetonius in Divus Julius, 29.

Question 4

How did Lentulus contribute to Caesar’s actions? [Plut]

Answer 4

“Gave Caesar the best possible excuse for taking action”

This is referenced by Plutarch in Life of Caesar, 31.

Question 5

What did Caesar claim about the loss of Pompey?

Answer 5

“They have seduced Pompey”

This statement is found in Caesar’s The Civil War 1.7.

Question 6

According to Plutarch, what caused the Civil War

Answer 6

“It was not… the quarrel between Caesar and Pompey that brought on the civil wars, but rather their friendship”

Plutarch in Life of Caesar, 13

Question 7

What did Caesar describe as his ‘very moderate demands’?

Answer 7

His demands to keep provinces and legions while becoming consul

This is mentioned in Caesar’s The Civil War.