What type of rhetorical work is "In Catilinam IV" regarded as?

"In Catilinam IV," often known as the Fourth Oration against Catiline, is recognized primarily as a political speech. This work by Cicero was delivered during a critical time in Roman history when he faced the threat posed by the conspirator Catiline and his followers. The oration is a poignant reflection of Cicero's role as a consul and his duty to protect the Roman Republic from internal threats.

The essence of the speech lies in its persuasive intent, aimed at rallying support from the Senate and the public against Catiline's conspiracies. Cicero utilizes various rhetorical techniques, including appeals to ethos, pathos, and logos, to galvanize his audience and highlight the urgency and gravity of the situation. His passionate delivery and strategic arguments exemplify the characteristics of political discourse during this tumultuous period.

This classification as a political speech is underscored by its direct engagement with current events and its primary goal of influencing political action and decision-making within the Senate and the wider community.