The Lives of Twelve Caesars - Complete
May 2022 · Otbebookpublishing
Ebook
601
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About this ebook
As private secretary to the Emperor Hadrian, Suetonius gained access to the imperial archives and used them (along with eye-witness accounts) to produce one of the most colourful biographical works in history. The Twelve Caesars chronicles the public careers and private lives of the men who wielded absolute power over Rome, from the foundation of the empire under Julius Caesar and Augustus, to the decline into depravity and civil war under Nero, and the recovery that came with his successors. A masterpiece of anecdote, wry observation and detailed physical description, The Twelve Caesars presents us with a gallery of vividly drawn — and all too human — individuals. (Goodreads)
About the author
Gaius Suetonius Tranquillus, commonly known as Suetonius, was a Roman historian and biographer born around 69 AD, during the early years of Emperor Vespasian's reign. Suetonius is best known for his detailed and often scandalous accounts of the lives of Roman emperors, which provide a fascinating glimpse into the inner workings of the Roman Empire. Educated in Rome, he initially pursued a career in law but soon found his true calling in historical writing.Suetonius held various significant positions, including a role as a secretary to Emperor Hadrian, which granted him access to imperial archives and firsthand information about the Roman elite. His works are characterized by their vivid anecdotes, personal details, and a focus on the moral character of his subjects, which set them apart from the more formal historical accounts of his contemporaries.One of the most intriguing aspects of Suetonius's life is his willingness to delve into the private lives and vices of Rome's most powerful figures, often revealing controversial and salacious details that other historians might have omitted. This approach has led to debates about his reliability but also ensured his enduring popularity.Suetonius's influence extends beyond his own time, impacting Renaissance humanists and modern biographers alike. His method of blending historical fact with engaging narrative has inspired countless writers, making him a pivotal figure in the development of biographical literature. His works remain a vital source for understanding the complexities of Roman imperial history and the human stories behind the grandeur of ancient Rome.
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