What does the term "Attic" in reference to Cicero's oratory style signify?

The term "Attic" in reference to Cicero's oratory style designates a connection to the Athenian school of rhetoric, particularly the refined and elegant style associated with classical Athenian orators such as Lysias and Isocrates. Attic oratory is known for its clarity, simplicity, and logical structure, traits that Cicero admired and sought to emulate in his own speeches. By embracing this style, Cicero aimed to elevate Roman rhetoric and bring a touch of Athenian sophistication to his own work, thereby making his arguments more persuasive and impactful.

Cicero's adoption of the Attic style reflects a broader cultural exchange between the Hellenistic world and Rome, highlighting how influential Athenian rhetoric was on Roman orators. This term emphasizes both the aesthetic qualities of his speech and the philosophical foundations that informed his approach to public speaking.

The other options do not align with the fundamental meaning of "Attic" in this context. Roman influence pertains more to Cicero's own innovations and adaptations as a Roman orator rather than his borrowing from Athenian styles. Rhetorical complexity could describe various styles but does not specifically reflect the elegance associated with Attic rhetoric. Poetic form does not pertain directly