Lucius Quinctius Cincinnatus
Lucius Quinctius Cincinnatus is a semihistorical figure from the early Roman Republic, renowned for his exemplary virtues during a time of military strife. According to tradition, in 458 BCE, he left his farming duties to accept the role of dictator during a crisis involving the Aequi, effectively saving Rome from a threatened defeat. After successfully leading the Roman forces, he famously resigned from his position and returned to his plow, embodying the principles of selflessness and civic duty. Cincinnatus is also noted for a possible second appointment as dictator in 439 BCE, as well as his role as consul in 460 BCE. The primary source for his story is the Roman historian Livy, who depicted Cincinnatus as a model of Republican virtues, emphasizing qualities like courage and dedication. While the historical accuracy of Cincinnatus's life may be debated, his narrative serves as a powerful symbol of Roman ideals and has influenced cultural and political thought throughout history. His legacy is often invoked as an archetype of leadership that prioritizes the common good over personal ambition.
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Lucius Quinctius Cincinnatus
Related civilization: Early Republican Rome
Major role/position: Dictator, military commander, farmer
Life
Lucius Quinctius Cincinnatus (LEW-shee-uhs KWIHNK-shee-uhs SIHN-suh-NAT-uhs) is a semihistorical figure who lived in the early Roman Republic. During this period, Rome was engaged in nearly continuous warfare against its Italic neighbors for control of regions around Rome itself. Cincinnatus is the Roman who left his plow to save the Republic.
According to Roman tradition, during a military crisis in 458 b.c.e., Cincinnatus was called from his plow, appointed dictator, and given the command against the Aequi. After saving Rome, he resigned and returned to his farm. He may have been appointed dictator a second time in 439 b.c.e. during a similar crisis. Roman records list him as a consul in 460 b.c.e.
Roman historian Livy (c. 59 b.c.e.-c. 17 c.e.) is the primary ancient source for Cincinnatus, who appears in Books 3 and 4 of Livy’s Ab urbe condita libri (c. 26 b.c.e.-15 c.e.; The History of Rome, 1600). Much of Livy’s history consists of “useful and instructive fictions” based on Romans who had lived closer to his time and about whom he had more reliable information. Livy often used his history to glorify Roman virtue and tradition as examples for his contemporaries.
Influence
Consequently, the importance of this story is not its historical accuracy but the traditional Republican virtues displayed by its protagonist, Cincinnatus: courage, selflessness, and dedication to the Republic.
Bibliography
Hornblower, S., and A. Spawforth. eds. The Oxford Classical Dictionary. Oxford, England: Oxford University Press, 1996.
Ogilvie, R. M. A Commentary on Livy, Books 1-5. Oxford, England: Clarendon Press, 1998.