Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to examine the variations in Cicero's treatment of Clodius in his speeches and to suggest reasons why these variations occur. The treatment of five principal themes will be considered: Clodius' relationship with Gabinius and Piso; Clodius’ alleged link with Catiline and/or surviving Catilinarians; the Bona Dea affair; Clodius’ alleged incest with one or more of his sisters; Clodius’ supposed insanity, which clearly exceeded the tribunician norm