Gn. Pompejusz a optymaci (52 rok przed Chrystusem)

Abstract

The author begins his deliberation by pointing out that the optimates decided to cooperate with Pompey because they merely had a choice, and underlining that despite that fact, their initiative led to a political breakthrough in Rome by bringing under control the successive wave of crisis besetting the Republic increasingly from 54 and by resulting in creation of a new political camp. Bearing this in mind, the author emphasizes the grounds of the mentioned breakthrough, which were based on the gradual changes that started in year 54 and continued until the beginning of 52, in the line-up on the Roman political arena, particularly between Pompey and the optimates; as well as the factors favouring their agreement and cooperation. These included the changes in policy carried out by both sides in said time, the key moments when those changes were made, gradual maturing to establishing the alliance, as well as the character and structure of Pompey’s blocs and optimates grouping. After outlining the enumerated issues, the author discusses the relations between Pompey and the optimates subsequent to their alliance during Pompey’s third independent consulate, which he held for about six months in 52. The debate is based on those actions of Pompey and his new political partners which had or could have had impact on their relations at the time.