Kultura intelektualna Pompejusza

Abstract

In scholarly literature on Cnaeus Pompeius Magnus there is tendency to relativize his attitude to broadly defined culture. His intellectual formation, when confronted with his political and military achievements, seems to be less impressive. Extant sources, however, allow us to conclude that his intellectual formation was idiosyncratic and developed throughout his life. It does not change the fact that his intellectual formation was not as profound as this of the undisputed luminaries of his times, that is, for instance, his political rivals — first Lucullus, then Caesar. Yet, they both came from families with solidified cultural traditions. Nonetheless, both popularity that Pompeius enjoyed amongst the senators as well their support might prove that his intellectual formation did not differ from what was considered average in this milieu. Additional proof of Pompeius’ intellectual interests might be provided by his cultural patronage and support given to him by the most outstanding Roman intellectuals of his period, most notably Cicero and Varro.