Chapter I, In Verrem I Summary and Analysis

In Verrem "Against Verres" is a series of juridical orations given by Cicero, who was serving as Prosecutor in a trial against the corrupt governor of Sicily, Verres. These speeches were given in 70 B.C. and there seven speeches altogether, five of which he could not give, as Verres had fled into exile. These speeches are highly political, particularly In Verrem I. Verres, despite his corruption, was well-connected. The people of Sicily despised him as did many in Rome; so, they backed Cicero. However, Verres's allies supported the famous orator and lawyer Hortensius against Cicero. The defense's strategy was to delay the trial as long as possible, until 69 B.C. when Hortensius and an ally would be elected to consulships and their friend Marcus Metellus elected praetor and president of the extortion court...