agrippina Flashcards
What political paradox does Agrippina represent?
The woman who managed to exercise great power and influence in a society that offered no constitutional role to powerful and influential women.
What transformation did Agrippina bring to the regime of Claudius?
She changed it from a repressive dictatorship marked by continuous judicial executions to a relatively benign partnership between the ruler and the ruled.
What was Agrippina’s crucial failing?
Her inability to reconcile maternal and political instincts.
What does the evidence suggest about Agrippina’s appearance?
It suggests that she is a distinctly unattractive woman.
What would Agrippina likely have achieved if she were a man?
High office, quite likely the principate itself.
True or False: Agrippina was accused of poisoning, which provides insight into her reputation.
True.
What common tendency do ancient sources exhibit when discussing ambitious women like Agrippina?
To think in stereotypes and tailor the evidence to fit preconceived type-models.
Who were Agrippina’s husbands?
- Gnaeus Domititus Ahenobabarbus
- Gaius Sallustius Crispus Passienus
- Tiberius Claudius Caesar (Claudius)
Who were the key historical figures associated with Agrippina?
- Agrippina
- Nero
- Claudius
- Caligula
Which historian is considered the most important regarding Agrippina’s story?
Tacitus.
What does Barret suggest about historians’ views on Agrippina?
Historians are corrupted by an inherent way of viewing the world, leading to bias.
What was the geographical location of Rome?
On the west coast of Italy about halfway down the Italian peninsula.
What characterized the political context of Agrippina’s life?
Political turmoil, intrigue, and violence of the emperor’s court.
Fill in the blank: Agrippina is the _______ of emperor Augustus.
[great-granddaughter]
What was the major transformation in Caligula’s reign after his illness?
It became characterised by megalomania, tyranny, and paranoia.
What significant event marked the end of Caligula’s reign?
His assassination by tribunes of the Praetorian guard.
What happened to Agrippina after Caligula’s assassination?
She was exiled to the Pontian island and all her property was confiscated.
What were Agrippina’s official positions given by Caligula?
- Honourary vestal virgin
- Securitas
What familial connections did Agrippina have that contributed to her power?
- Direct lineage to Augustus and Livia
- Wealth from various husbands
- Political alliances with influential senators
True or False: Agrippina married for love.
False.
What was Agrippina’s relationship with her brother Caligula?
They plotted against each other and shared a bed.
What was the significance of Agrippina’s son, Nero?
He was linked to her Julian blood and direct link to Augustus.
What did Caligula do for his sisters, including Agrippina?
Promoted their position and bestowed privileges and titles.
What did Agrippina’s family connections provide her?
A basis of her power and influence.
