Dialogues · Character

Fabius Maximus

Roman general, known for his delaying tactics against Hannibal.

minor

Also known as Fabius Verrucosus, Verrucosus

First appearance: i

Fabius Maximus shows up with force in Book I. The page is where that presence becomes real.

Praised for delaying tactics that saved the Roman state.

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In Book I: Praised for delaying tactics that saved the Roman state. Later, in XI: Roman general who restored the state by delaying and…

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Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Exposition.

This passage marks the dramatic climax because it presents the emotional and psychological peak of the argumen…

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Book I
Praised for delaying tactics that saved the Roman state.
XI
Roman general who restored the state by delaying and spinning out time, conquering his anger before Hannibal.
Book II: The Nature and Cure of Anger
Quoted for saying that the most shameful excuse a general can make is 'I did not think.'
XXXI
Quoted for his saying that 'I did not think' is the most shameful excuse a general can make, used to illustrate the folly of being unprepared for human failings.
On the Shortness of Life: The Busy Man's Loss
Quoted as a philosopher who advocated fighting passions by main force, not sophistry.
XIII
Referenced as Fabianus, Seneca's friend who doubted the value of such studies.
VII
Used the metaphor of a gritty loaf of bread to describe benefits given harshly.
Book IV: The Intrinsic Value of Benefits and Gratitude
Mentioned as Verrucosus, along with Allobrogicus and the three hundred Fabii, as examples of a family whose virtue earned respect for later descendants like Fabius Persicus.
XXVII
Cited as an example of a man who 'by delays retrieved the day,' not inherently rash.
On the Duty of Respecting Ancestral Virtue
Mentioned as Verrucosus, whose family's virtue elevated Fabius Persicus to priesthoods.

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