Caligula: The False Augustus - The Pax Romana Podcast 11

Caligula—one of the most infamous names in Roman history. But before he became the cruel and debased monster that history would remember, he began his reign with all signs pointing to a return to the good old days of Augustus. Unlike the previous emperor Tiberius, Caligula was engaged and active—a princeps prepared to fulfill the calling of his office, to be an example of morality and nobility that would provide a renewed sense of purpose to a senate that had lost its way during the treason trials under Tiberius. But as we’ll learn today, the wild optimism that began was quickly snuffed out.

Primary Sources Referenced:

Cassius Dio, Roman History 59.6.1-4

Suetonius, Caligula 15

CIL VI, 00892

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