Imperial Rome

Description

In CLAS214 “Imperial Rome” you will be introduced to the first Emperors of Rome. We will begin with Augustus and his establishment of the ‘principate’, before analyzing the reign of each emperor through to Hadrian’s death in 138 CE. This allows us to see how imperial rule is established, as well as how political forms and systems are shaped and developed by successive emperors. We will also analyze some of Rome’s conflicts, from Caligula’s failed invasion of Britain to success under  Claudius. Rebellions and resistance to Roman rule, such as that undertaken by Boudicca in Britain are also discussed. We acknowledge how Trajan extended the empire to its greatest extent, before his successor Hadrian consolidates the frontier pulling it back to natural boundaries and establishing defensive structures such as Hadrian’s wall. The course will focus on events in the reign of individual emperors, from which we can make comment on the execution of power.

In the process, we will observe some bizarre antics, such as whether Caligula really tried to elect his horse as consul! Or does this simply make him insane? Did Vespasian actually tax urine? Why, and how?! The events and personalities we highlight also provide an opportunity to investigate aspects of Roman imperial society. Prominent, active and visible women of the imperial family are introduced, their influence and power are discussed. We also look at the lives of ordinary Romans, what was it like to live in a Roman City in the First Century CE? We ask ‘what can Pompeii tell us?’ At the end of the course you will understand more of Roman emperors and the Roman World of the first century CE.