The Lives of the Twelve Caesars, Volume 04: Caligula   By: Gaius Suetonius Tranquillus (75-160)

In the fourth volume of “The Lives of the Twelve Caesars,” author Gaius Suetonius Tranquillus delves into the notorious reign of Caligula. This biography explores the life and actions of one of Rome’s most infamous emperors, known for his erratic behavior, cruelty, and extravagance.

Tranquillus provides a detailed account of Caligula’s rise to power, his early achievements, and his descent into madness. Through anecdotes and historical records, the author paints a vivid portrait of a leader driven by vanity and a lust for power.

The author’s writing style is engaging and easy to follow, making this biography a compelling read for history buffs and scholars alike. However, some readers may find the excessive focus on Caligula’s eccentricities and atrocities overwhelming at times.

Overall, “The Lives of the Twelve Caesars, Volume 04: Caligula” offers a fascinating glimpse into the life of a controversial figure in Roman history. It is a valuable resource for anyone interested in learning more about the complexities of ancient leadership and the consequences of absolute power.

First Page:

I. Germanicus, the father of Caius Caesar, and son of Drusus and the younger Antonia, was, after his adoption by Tiberius, his uncle, preferred to the quaestorship [377] five years before he had attained the legal age, and immediately upon the expiration of that office, to the consulship [378]. Having been sent to the army in Germany, he restored order among the legions, who, upon the news of Augustus's death, obstinately refused to acknowledge Tiberius as emperor [379], and offered to place him at the head of the state. In which affair it is difficult to say, whether his regard to filial duty, or the firmness of his resolution, was most conspicuous. Soon afterwards he defeated the enemy, and obtained the honours of a triumph. Being then made consul for the second time [380], before he could enter upon his office he was obliged to set out suddenly for the east, where, after he had conquered the king of Armenia, and reduced Cappadocia into the form of a province, he died at Antioch, of a lingering distemper, in the thirty fourth year of his age [381], not without the suspicion of being poisoned... Continue reading book >>