Chapter 7, Exile, The Rise of Caesar, 58-52 B.C. Summary and Analysis

While Cicero was depressed in exile, affairs in Rome only became more complicated. Clodius turned his attention to undermining Pompey. His allies on the Tribune fought back and their gangs killed each other in large numbers. Due to the struggle, Pompey backed Cicero's recall. Caesar finally gave his reluctant consent as well. Clodius's mobs scared people too much. The entire political class ultimately backed the recall and Cicero returned triumphantly. However, Rome was so politically unstable that Cicero was quickly drawn back into backroom legislation and electioneering. Clodius still sought to destroy him. The First Triumvirate was breaking down, as events in Egypt set Pompey and Crassus against one another.

Cicero spent his time putting his finances back together, avoiding Clodius and maintaining political stability...