How many books comprise Institutio Oratoria?

Institutio Oratoria, written by the Roman rhetorician Quintilian, is a comprehensive work on rhetoric and education that consists of twelve books. This extensive treatise covers a wide array of topics related to the art of speaking, outlining the process of education in rhetoric and the characteristics of an ideal orator. Quintilian’s work is significant not only for its insightful pedagogy but also for its discussions on the moral and ethical dimensions of rhetoric, shaping how oratory was perceived in both his time and in future centuries.

The choice of twelve books reflects the depth and breadth of subjects Quintilian addresses, from the training of the orator to the role of natural talent and practice, as well as the incorporation of moral philosophy into effective oratory. Each book contributes uniquely to a holistic understanding of rhetoric, demonstrating Quintilian's broader educational vision.