Chapter 10, A Strange Madness, The Battle for the Republic, 50-48 B.C. Summary and Analysis

Cicero was depressed about the present conditions and how to react. In the conflict between Caesar and Pompey, he preferred Pompey but cared most about saving the Republic. He fought to secure compromise to maintain peace; he and his allies were able to reveal public support for it. Pompey tried to convince Cicero to side with him to prepare for Caesar's return. He believed that Caesar would simply conquer town after town with his loyal armies. Cicero nearly agreed and thought that Caesar would ambush Pompey before he was ready. And indeed, Caesar crossed the Rubicon and did just this. Pompey abandoned Rome and the opposition to Caesar was confused. Cicero tried to remain neutral so he could later...