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Why Is Caligula Considered A Turning Point In Rome?

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The reign of Caligula, the third Roman Emperor from the Julio-Claudian dynasty, has been subject to much debate among historians regarding its significance in the transition of Rome toward monarchy. This essay aims to examine the arguments both for and against the notion that Caligula's reign marked a turning point in Rome, shifting away from the traditions of the Roman Principate (RP) established by Augustus. By drawing upon primary sources, particularly Suetonius' "Lives of the Caesars," we can explore the continuities with Augustus and Tiberius, as well as the innovative decisions made by the earlier Julio-Claudians.
Suetonius portrays Caligula as a tyrant, emphasizing his despotic behavior and disregard for Roman norms and institutions. …show more content…

Suetonius recounts instances where Caligula demanded to be worshipped as a god, including his plans to erect a statue of himself in the temple of Jerusalem. These acts directly challenge the religious and political order of the Roman Republic, indicating a shift toward monarchical tendencies (Suetonius, "Caligula," 22).
Despite Caligula's controversial actions, it is essential to recognize the continuities with Augustus and Tiberius that persisted throughout his reign. Augustus established the RP, which aimed to maintain the outward forms of the Republic while concentrating power in the hands of the emperor. Tiberius, as Augustus' successor, continued this policy by adopting a cautious approach and preserving the appearance of a republican system.
Caligula, in the early stages of his reign, initially adhered to this approach. Suetonius reports that Caligula respected the Senate and upheld its authority during the initial months of his rule. He distributed bonuses and organized public entertainments, similar to Augustus' practices, to gain popularity and maintain the illusion of a harmonious relationship between the emperor and the Senate (Suetonius, "Caligula," …show more content…

He implemented measures such as strengthening the praetorian guard, suppressing opposition, and fostering a personality cult centered around the emperor. These decisions facilitated the further concentration of power and laid the groundwork for future emperors, including Caligula, to expand their authority (Suetonius, "Tiberius," sections on his reforms and policies).
While Caligula's reign undoubtedly introduced elements of change and challenged traditional Roman norms, it is essential to contextualize his actions within the broader historical developments initiated by Augustus and Tiberius. Caligula continued the trend of consolidating power within the imperial office, which had been established by Augustus and further developed by Tiberius. While his despotic behavior and divinity claims set him apart from his predecessors, there were also instances where Caligula adhered to the principles of the Roman Principate, maintaining the outward appearance of a republican

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