How did cincinnatus show civic virtue?

Answer 1

Cincinnatus was was a Roman politician who had been exiled due to his son's politics. As was done by a proper Roman, he retreated to his farm where he worked the land. When Rome was on the verge of being invaded Cincinnatus was asked by the people to come and lead Rome against the invaders. Once in Rome he had complete control over Rome while he led the Romans to victory. Afterwards he immediately gave up all control and went back to his farm. Key here is the Roman idea of "for the state." Even though Rome had rejected him, Cincinnatus still served the Republic. Even though he had complete power, the equivalent to a dictator, he did not keep the power for himself, but returned it to the people. And through it all he was modest and humble, all examples of how to be the "perfect" Roman. He served his Republic with no thought of benefit for himself alone.