Final answer:
Cicero admired Greek philosophy and literature for their contributions to Roman culture but was cautious and sometimes critical in his attitudes towards Greeks themselves, reflecting a broader ambivalence among Roman aristocracy.
Step-by-step explanation:
Cicero, a renowned Roman orator and statesman, had a complex relationship with Greek culture. He was an avid supporter of Greek philosophy and literature, recognizing their significant influence on Roman thought and education. Yet, when it came to his interactions with actual Greeks, he often exhibited a more critical perspective. For instance, in his letter to his brother Quintus, Cicero suggests exercising caution and distrust towards Greeks, indicating a degree of cultural and perhaps ideological mistrust. This ambivalence was characteristic of Roman elite attitudes towards Greeks -- admiring their intellectual contributions while simultaneously maintaining a sense of Roman superiority.
Cicero's appreciation of Greek intellectual heritage likely contributed to his eloquence and philosophical outlook, which are well documented in his writings and speeches. However, the skeptical or scornful tone he occasionally applied to Greeks in his correspondence suggests a nuanced stance that mixed appreciation with caution. This duality reflects a broader trend among Roman aristocrats, who often embraced Hellenistic teachings while distancing themselves from Greek individuals and social practices.