This zesty introduction is a welcome addition to the enormous bibliography on Cicero. Presenting the material thematically, rather than chronologically, Gesine Manuwald takes a fresh look at the life and career of the great Roman statesman and author. Her aim is to reach the "real" Cicero, and in this she succeeds brilliantly. Manuwald begins her study with a discussion of Cicero's last years; in subsequent chapters she skilfully develops our understanding of "Who was Cicero?" by presenting the themes of his life - oratory, philosophy, politics, literature, and so on - in a lively and engaging manner. Cicero's own words are the basis for her discussion in every chapter; she has chosen them well and explicated them clearly. The book concludes with an excellent chapter on the reception of Cicero from the time of his death to the present. A full and informative glossary, a useful bibliography and index are valuable additions. Cicero is a real pleasure to read, authoritative and charming at the same time, and I for one feel that I know Cicero better than ever for having read it. Students, scholars and the general public will too.' Jane Crawford, Professor of Classics, University of Virginia