A Dictionary of Greek and Roman biography and mythology

1. M.ClaudiusMarcellus was consul in B. C. 331, the year that was distinguished for the execution of above seventy Roman matrons on the charge of poisoning. In 327 he was named dictator, for the purpose of holding the comitia, but his nomination was set aside by the augurs, on pretence of some informality, a proceeding vehemently arraigned by the tribunes of the people, who justly attributed the conduct of the augurs to their unwillingness to see a plebeian dictator. (Liv. 8.18, 23.)