1.2 Tiberius AD 14-37 Flashcards
Who was Tiberius?
An outstanding military general and key player in the complex succession to Augustus
What was Tiberius’s approach to ruling?
He was presented as a cryptic ruler who made no real attempt to win the support of the lower and upper classes
What did Tiberius eventually accomplish in terms of succession?
He eventually won over others either dead, disgraced, or too inexperienced
True or False: Tiberius actively sought the support of the lower classes.
False
Fill in the blank: Tiberius was a key player in the complex succession to _______.
Augustus
What are the contrasting views of Tiberius among historians?
Some admire him while others highlight his hypocrisy, cruelty, and perversity
Tacitus portrays Tiberius negatively, while Velleius Paterculus offers a positive view.
How does Tacitus portray Tiberius?
As cryptic, harsh, perverted, reticent, and cold
He presents Tiberius as inscrutable to the Senate and an unworthy successor to Augustus.
What is a key characteristic of Tacitus’s writing style?
He writes as a senator and often contextualizes events in relation to the emperor-senator relationship
His accounts aim to teach moral lessons.
What does Tacitus claim about his purpose in writing?
He aims to teach moral lessons and highlight failings to prevent their repetition
This is mentioned in Annals 3.65.
What is Dio Cassius’s relationship to Tacitus’s work?
His account is broadly similar to Tacitus’s, based on common traditions and documents, using Annals as a main source
This indicates reliance on earlier historical accounts.
How does Suetonius’s portrayal of Tiberius differ from Tacitus’s?
Suetonius acknowledges Tiberius was initially respectful and courteous to senators
Changes in Tiberius’s behavior occurred after his son’s death in AD 23.
What does Velleius Paterculus say about Tiberius’s reign?
He offers a highly positive view, claiming Tiberius’s reign included magnificent public buildings
This contrasts with Suetonius’s claim of no significant public works.
What was the context of Tiberius’s accession to power?
There was no precedent of succession for Tiberius to follow after Augustus’s death
Augustus had groomed Tiberius as his successor, but Tiberius lacked the auctoritas.
What challenges did Tiberius face during his accession?
Rebellions from the Pannonian legions and a mutiny from the German legions
These were motivated by underpayment and soldiers not being released after their service.
How does Tacitus describe Tiberius’s handling of the mutinies?
He appears highly ineffective and is concerned about Germanicus’s popularity with the soldiers
This is detailed in Annals 1.46 and 1.52.
What is Velleius Paterculus’s take on the mutinies?
He presents Tiberius’s accession as seamless and claims he dealt with the mutinies quickly
He attributes this to Tiberius’s long experience as an army commander.
What does the text suggest about the reliability of historical sources?
There is a need for critical understanding of the reliability of sources and their agendas
Different historians have varying interpretations of Tiberius’s actions and reign.
What is Tacitus’ moralistic agenda reflected in his characterization?
Most characters are depicted as ‘heroes’ and ‘villains’
This dichotomy is particularly evident in the portrayals of Germanicus and Sejanus.
Who were the two key figures under Tiberius highlighted by Tacitus?
Germanicus and Sejanus
Their contrasting roles illustrate the political dynamics of Tiberius’ reign.
What was Tiberius’ reaction to Germanicus’ popularity?
Tiberius saw Germanicus as a threat
This perception stemmed from Germanicus’ loyalty among troops and aspirations for power.
What strategic move did Tiberius make regarding Germanicus’ military support?
Tiberius sent Germanicus to settle issues in Judaea and Syria
This separated Germanicus from his military base of support.
What was the role of Gnaeus Calpurnius Piso in relation to Germanicus?
Piso was appointed governor of Syria to undermine Germanicus
Piso believed he was sent to curb Germanicus’ ambitions.
What happened during Germanicus’ journey to the east in 18 AD?
He was welcomed and lauded everywhere, while Piso undermined him
Piso’s tactics included lavishness and favoritism to sway the legions.
What was Germanicus’ fate upon returning to Syria?
He fell seriously ill and died, believing he was poisoned by Piso
Germanicus warned his wife Agrippina not to anger those in power.
What was the outcome of Piso’s trial in Rome?
Piso committed suicide before the trial concluded
The Senate passed judgments against him and his sons despite his death.
How did Tacitus depict Tiberius’ reaction to Germanicus’ death?
Tiberius appeared cold and distant, showing no real grief
He refused to meet Agrippina and limited public honors for Germanicus.
How does Velleius Paterculus’ account differ from Tacitus’ regarding Germanicus’ death?
Velleius glosses over it as a misfortune for Tiberius, focusing on his sorrow and shame
This reflects a more sympathetic view of Tiberius.
What role did Sejanus play during Tiberius’ reign?
Sejanus was Tiberius’ right-hand man and a political opportunist
His character is depicted as corrupt and power-hungry.