What is the significance of "nobis" in Cicero's addresses?

The term "nobis" is significant in Cicero's addresses as it translates to "to us." This pronoun is used to indicate a sense of inclusion and shared identity between Cicero and his audience. By using "nobis," Cicero establishes a rapport and a communal relationship, inviting listeners to engage with the ideas being presented as part of a collective experience. This usage enhances the persuasive quality of his rhetoric, emphasizing unity and shared responsibility among the speaker and the audience, which is crucial in legal and philosophical discourse where appealing to the audience's sense of belonging is important.

In contrast, other options convey different meanings that do not capture the same inclusivity implied by "nobis." For instance, "for them" would suggest a separation between Cicero and the people he is addressing, while "with us" implies a different relational context that isn't quite as impactful in the direct appeal Cicero aims for. Lastly, "among us" suggests a more passive presence rather than an active engagement that "to us" emphasizes, which aligns more closely with the purpose of his rhetoric.