Advanced Certamen Literature Practice Exam

The full name of Cato the Elder is Marcus Porcius Cato. He was a prominent Roman statesman, soldier, and author who lived during the 2nd century BCE. Cato is best known for his conservative values, staunch opposition to Hellenization, and contributions to Roman agriculture and philosophy. His full name reflects the Roman naming conventions, where the first name (praenomen) is Marcus, the family name (nomen) is Porcius, and Cato is his cognomen, a nickname that often denoted his branch of the family or a notable characteristic.

This full name distinguishes him from other notable figures in Roman history, such as Lucius Cornelius Sulla, Cicero Augustus, and Gaius Julius Caesar, each of whom had their own significant roles in Roman affairs but were not connected to Cato the Elder. Cato is particularly remembered for his motto "Carthago delenda est" ("Carthage must be destroyed"), highlighting his advocacy for the Third Punic War against Carthage.