Lucius Marcius Philippus

Despite his marriage ties with Caesar, Philippus did not take his side in Caesar's Civil War with Pompey , passing anti-Caesar legislation in the Senate. Because of this, Philippus was not given a province to govern for the year. Sensing the threat implicit in this snub, Philippus requested that Caesar allow him to sit out the war and remained in Italy for the duration. Caesar obliged, thankful that he had not gained an enemy, even if he had not gained a supporter. He became a close friend of Cicero , also waiting out the war.

The desire of Philippus to avoid conflict is evident at all times of his life. When his step-son Octavius was named Caesar's heir, Philippus attempted to dissuade him from accepting his inheritance because of the danger from Antony. He enlisted Atia to try her hand at convincing the young man to decline, but it was no use. Although he opposed Mark Antony , Philippus took part in the delegation sent to him at Mutina , and returned his demands to the senate. Cicero chided Philippus for this.

Atia died during August/September 43 BC , and Philippus later married her sister according to Ovid . He lived to old age, and Augustus rewarded him for his continued loyalty from spoils from foreign victories. With his reward, he restored the temple ‘Hercules of the Muses’. Roman coinage on him can be seen at http://www.cgb.fr/monnaies/vso/v04/v040021.html

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Lucius Marcius Philippus