On Duties
Marcus Tullius Cicero
Read by Geoffrey Edwards
On Duties is a profound exploration of ethics and morality by the renowned Roman statesman and philosopher, Marcus Tullius Cicero. In this work, Cicero delves into the intricate relationship between virtue and expediency, examining how these concepts can sometimes conflict in the realm of human behavior and decision-making.
Set against the backdrop of ancient Rome, Cicero's reflections are not merely theoretical; they are grounded in the practical realities of political life and personal conduct. His insights have resonated through the ages, influencing thinkers and leaders alike, and making this text a cornerstone of moral philosophy.
As one of the earliest works printed on Gutenberg's press, On Duties has been a staple in educational institutions, including Eton College, and continues to be relevant for those seeking to understand the complexities of ethical responsibility. This translation by Walter Miller, narrated by Geoffrey Edwards, brings Cicero's timeless wisdom to a modern audience.
Chapters
Select a chapter to play
| Book I Sections I-XIII (Text 3) | 42:39 | Read by Geoffrey Edwards | |
| Book I Sections XIV-XXVI (Text 47) | 46:12 | Read by Geoffrey Edwards | |
| Book I Sections XXVII-XXXIV (Text 95) | 32:00 | Read by Geoffrey Edwards | |
| Book I Sections XXXV-XLV (Text 129) | 35:47 | Read by Geoffrey Edwards | |
| Book II Sections I-VIII (Text 169) | 30:17 | Read by Geoffrey Edwards | |
| Book II Sections IX-XVII (Text 199) | 34:23 | Read by Geoffrey Edwards | |
| Book II Sections XVIII-XXV (Text 233) | 31:28 | Read by Geoffrey Edwards | |
| Book III Sections I-VII (Text 271) | 30:33 | Read by Geoffrey Edwards | |
| Book III Sections VIII-XV (Text 303) | 32:04 | Read by Geoffrey Edwards | |
| Book III Sections XVI-XXIII (Text 335) | 32:51 | Read by Geoffrey Edwards | |
| Book III Sections XXIV-XXXIII (Text 369) | 32:26 | Read by Geoffrey Edwards |
Reviews
Interesting but difficult
Viktor
Not for the faint hearted if you want to absorb it, long, dense and while I applaud and thank the reader for making so many philosophical works available and for his perseverance, his delivery is atonal and that exacerbates things. Interesting though, particularly in light of what was going on around Cicero when he wrote it, and what followed.
Conduct and Honor
Hexgod
A great literary work on the morals of the people in society. it bridges the gap between the stoic wisdoms and the base grounds of moral conduct in a lawful society.
A classic!
Kyle
Mr. Edwards does himself and Cicero proud with his rendition. Thank you for lending your to this reading.
good book well read
Thiago Coelho
good book well read
Interesting Listen - Good Narrator
Adam
I appreciate Geoffrey Edwards for taking the time to record this and other works by Cicero and other philosophers. He does a good job, and I gleaned a lot of little gems from this work.
when the boss takes over he means to pay so don't fall asleep on
SUNNYDAZE
duties or you'll get fired so read to please