Asconius Pedianus

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Asconius Pedianus[edit | edit source]

Quintus Asconius Pedianus (9 BC – AD 76) was a Roman historian and commentator, known for his detailed and insightful commentaries on the speeches of Cicero. His works provide valuable insights into the political and social context of the late Roman Republic.

Life[edit | edit source]

Asconius was born in Patavium, modern-day Padua, in 9 BC. Little is known about his early life, but it is believed that he spent much of his life in Rome, where he had access to the archives and libraries that were essential for his scholarly work. Asconius lived through the reigns of several Roman emperors, including Augustus, Tiberius, Caligula, Claudius, and Nero.

Works[edit | edit source]

Asconius is best known for his commentaries on the speeches of Cicero, which are among the few surviving works of Roman scholarship. His commentaries cover five of Cicero's speeches:

  • Pro Cornelio
  • In Pisonem
  • Pro Scauro
  • Pro Milone
  • In Toga Candida

These commentaries are invaluable for understanding the historical and political context of Cicero's orations. Asconius provides background information on the events and figures mentioned in the speeches, as well as explanations of legal and political terms.

Importance[edit | edit source]

Asconius's work is significant for several reasons. Firstly, it preserves details about the late Roman Republic that are not found in other sources. Secondly, his commentaries help modern scholars understand the rhetorical techniques and strategies employed by Cicero. Finally, Asconius's work is a testament to the scholarly activity of the early Roman Empire, showing how Roman intellectuals engaged with the literature of the past.

Legacy[edit | edit source]

Although only a portion of Asconius's work survives, it has been highly influential in the study of Roman history and rhetoric. His commentaries are frequently cited by scholars and are considered essential reading for anyone studying Cicero or the late Republic.

See also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

  • Asconius Pedianus, Commentaries on Cicero's Speeches
  • Smith, William, ed. (1870). Dictionary of Greek and Roman Biography and Mythology

External links[edit | edit source]

WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD