One reason is that only a Roman aristocrat could be part of a general's cohort and have expectations of gaining from the appointment. If he were not a Roman citizen, he would not have the privilege to even be with a Roman general, let alone expect something from it. Secondly, to write this poem the poet would have to be well-educated. This is seen by his play of words on the litotes in line four (non sane illepidum neque invenustum) and his poverty-stricken poet game. Only a very wealthy Roman citizen could receive such an education. Also, only one of very high status could use Gaius Cinna's name like that, saying he was a friend of
One reason is that only a Roman aristocrat could be part of a general's cohort and have expectations of gaining from the appointment. If he were not a Roman citizen, he would not have the privilege to even be with a Roman general, let alone expect something from it. Secondly, to write this poem the poet would have to be well-educated. This is seen by his play of words on the litotes in line four (non sane illepidum neque invenustum) and his poverty-stricken poet game. Only a very wealthy Roman citizen could receive such an education. Also, only one of very high status could use Gaius Cinna's name like that, saying he was a friend of