Caligula's Relationship with the Senate, Equestrians, and Plebs Flashcards
(11 cards)
What titles and powers were imparted onto Gaius by the Senate?
Imperium proconsulare maius and tribunicia potestas
This was notable as Gaius held no official position.
What advice did Tiberius give to Gaius in 39 regarding his rule?
Show neither affection nor mercy and take thought only for [his] own pleasure and safety
This led to the reintroduction of the maiestas trials.
How did the Senate react to the reintroduction of the maiestas trials?
They were cowed by long servitude to the princeps and praised Gaius
Senators’ personal prosperity depended on pleasing the princeps.
What annual commemoration was approved by the Senate for Gaius?
An annual sacrifice to commemorate his clemency
This was part of the Senate’s actions to show support for Gaius.
What was one of the honors proposed for Incitatus by Gaius?
Awarding him a consulship
This reflects the extravagance of Gaius’s rule.
Who described Gaius as a ‘mad beast’ and noted his cruelty?
Seneca in On Anger 3.19.1-5
This characterization highlights the perception of Gaius’s brutality.
What contrasting actions did Gaius take to gain popularity among the plebs?
Making decisions to gain popularity and brutal treatment of protesting citizens
Josephus discusses both aspects in Jewish Antiquities.
How did Gaius respond to the equites, according to Suetonius?
The equites constantly displeased him, yet he revised and expanded the order
This indicates a complex relationship with the equestrian class.
What is a notable characteristic of the majority of sources regarding Gaius?
They are upper-class authors wishing to cast Gaius as the mad tyrant
This may reflect bias in historical accounts.
What perspective did Josephus have on Gaius?
A Jewish anti-Gaius perspective, reflecting the Flavian dynasty’s condemnation
This influences his portrayal of Gaius as a poor model of an emperor.
What was the purpose of Seneca’s treatises regarding governance?
To guide the young Nero in a sensible path of governance
Seneca’s writings were intended to provide moral and practical advice.
