J. asked Robert Harris:

Do you think Cicero was a true advocate for the Roman Republic, or a self-aggrandizing opportunist? Having read a bit of history I am left with is ambiguity.

Robert Harris I think he genuinely believed in the Republic, with the true blind love of an outsider. I think it made his career possible. I also think he genuinely believed in liberty. He had many faults – he was vain, snobbish, deluded, bitchy, greedy, two-faced and sometimes cowardly – but these were outweighed by his virtues: compassion, wit, cleverness, love of friendship, charm, and (when the chips were down) bravery.

More Answered Questions

Andrew Cooper

Andrew Cooper asked Robert Harris:

I enjoyed Dictator hugely, as I did the rest of the trilogy, and thought I would miss Cicero very much after I turned the last page. But your writing has prompted me to start reading some of his letters and other writing. I have found them fascinating and full of the life force of this remarkable man. If you had to pick just one of his works to recommend to readers, what would it be?

Suzanne Rebman

Suzanne Rebman asked Robert Harris:

Mr. Harris, I so enjoyed the narrative in Tyro's voice! Tyro and Cicero are undoubtedly two individuals fated to be together in life, as well as posterity. Can you describe for readers how Cicero viewed his secretary? Surely, Cicero must have made exceptional allowances where his Tyro is concerned? Thank you!

Jo Marchant

Jo Marchant asked Robert Harris:

Your books have wide ranging subjects and your research is clearly extensive. What is your favourite era to write about, what inspires you most and why?

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