Which concept is most closely associated with Cicero's speeches against Catiline?

Cicero's speeches against Catiline are primarily recognized for their use of political rhetoric, which is crucial to understanding Cicero's aims and the context in which he delivered these speeches. His eloquence and persuasive techniques were designed to address the political climate of Rome at the time, particularly the threat posed by Catiline, who was accused of conspiracy against the Roman state.

In these speeches, Cicero employed various rhetorical strategies to rally public opinion against Catiline and to justify his actions as consul. He skillfully crafted his arguments to evoke emotions, appeal to his audience's sense of duty and morality, and demonstrate the urgency of the situation. This effective use of political rhetoric not only served to inform and persuade the Senate and Roman citizens but also helped to solidify Cicero's position as a staunch defender of the Republic.

While philosophical debate, legal defense, and historical narrative may provide rich contexts in the broader scope of Roman oratory and literature, they do not capture the significance of Cicero's intentions during the Catilinarian conspiracy as specifically as political rhetoric does.