The Lives of the Caesars · Chapter
Book VIII: The Deified Vespasian—The Deified Titus—Domitian explained
This chapter chronicles the rise of the Flavian dynasty, beginning with the obscure origins of Vespasian's family, his early military and political career under Claudius and Nero, and his eventual ascension to emperor amid civil war and pro
What happens
This chapter chronicles the rise of the Flavian dynasty, beginning with the obscure origins of Vespasian's family, his early military and political career under Claudius and Nero, and his eventual ascension to emperor amid civil war and prophecy. It then covers the brief reign of Titus, his generosity and popularity, and finally the rule of Domitian, highlighting his early vices, cruelty, and the eventual decline of his character.
Themes in this chapter
Dynastic Legacy and Family
The chapter details the obscure origins of the Flavian family, Vespasian's rise, and the succession of his sons Titus and Domitian, emphasizing the importance of family lineage and legacy.
Character and Morality of Rulers
Contrasts the virtuous reigns of Vespasian and Titus with Domitian's cruelty and vice, exploring how personal character affects governance.
Public Image and Propaganda
Vespasian's humble origins and Titus's generosity are highlighted as part of their public image, while Domitian's pretence of modesty and interest in poetry is noted as a facade.
Omens, Prophecy, and Divine Favor
Portents such as the oak tree branches and the prophecy of a ruler from Judaea are used to legitimize Vespasian's rise to power.
Characters to notice
- Vespasian
Central figure of the chapter; his rise from humble origins to emperor, military campaigns in Britain and Judaea, and portents of his destiny.
- Titus
Vespasian's elder son, noted for his role in the Judaean campaign and his brief but generous reign.
- Domitian
Vespasian's younger son, depicted as cruel and tyrannical, plotting against Titus and ruling with vice.
- Claudius
Emperor who sent Vespasian to Germany and Britain, and under whom Vespasian served.
- Nero
Emperor during whose reign Vespasian was banished from court and later given command in Judaea.
- Agrippina the Younger
Mentioned as having strong influence over Nero and hating friends of Narcissus, causing Vespasian to retire.
- Domitia Longina
Domitian's wife, whom he married after taking her from her husband, later divorced and remarried.
- Caenis
Freedwoman and former mistress of Vespasian, treated almost as a lawful wife after his wife's death.
Key passages
“The empire, which for a long time had been unsettled and, as it were, drifting, through the usurpation and violent death of three emperors, was at last taken in hand and given stability by the Flavian family.”
After a period of chaos and the violent deaths of three emperors, the Flavian family finally stabilized the Roman Empire.
Introduces the Flavian dynasty as the restorers of order after the Year of the Four Emperors.
“There had spread over all the Orient an old and established belief, that it was fated at that time for men coming from Judaea to rule the world.”
An ancient belief throughout the East held that men from Judaea were destined to rule the world.
Refers to the prophecy that influenced Vespasian's rise and the Jewish revolt.
“He constantly gave grand costly entertainments, both in the amphitheatre and in the Circus, where in addition to the usual races between two-horse and four-horse chariots, he also exhibited two battles, one between forces of infantry and the other by horsemen; and he even gave a naval battle in the amphitheatre.”
Domitian frequently hosted lavish spectacles, including chariot races, infantry and cavalry battles, and even a naval battle in the amphitheatre.
Illustrates Domitian's extravagant public entertainments as part of his rule.
