role during reign of Caligula (Gaius) Flashcards
After Tiberius’ death, who succeeded the throne?
Agrippina’s brother, 25 yr old Gaius.
His accession welcomed across Rome, with Senates decision to confer all power of princeps upon him.
What did Emperor gaius do?
went to great length to promote sisters: Agrippina, Drusilla, Livilla
- made them honorary vestal virgins
- allowed to watch ‘the games’ from imperial seats
- names included in vows for emperor’s safety
- included in preamble to consular motions
- appeared on imperial coinage
Why did Emperor Gaius promote his sisters?
- show genuine affection’
- re-establish importance of family of Germanicus
- Political motive = enhance legality of own claim to throne
Baumann suggests:
“Caligula was reminding world that he was not the only assurance of continuity of the regime”
Suetonius states that Gaius committed incest will all 3 sisters
What was the conspiracy of AD 39?
Suetonius states Gaius made Drusilla heir while Dio suggest her husband, Lepidus, was made next heir.
Drusilla dies
Lepidus was accused of affairs with both Livilla and Agrippina ( Gaius accuse them of immoral behaviour)- Agrip’s husband ill and perhaps felt Lepidus was way to secure position of emperor for son, Nero and gain power/
Out come of conspiracy of AD 39?
Lepidus condemned to death.
agripp exiled
son Nero was now looked after Domitius’ aunt, Domitia Lepida, mother of Messalina who married Claudius in 39. Claudius became emperor when Gaius assassinated
