Lives of the Caesars by Suetonius
- 1. The 'Lives of the Caesars', also known as 'De Vita Caesarum', is a seminal work authored by the Roman historian Suetonius in the early 2nd century CE, which provides a vivid and detailed biographical account of the first twelve emperors of Rome, from Julius Caesar to Domitian. This collection not only chronicles the political and military exploits of these rulers but also delves into their personal lives, characteristics, and idiosyncrasies, revealing a rich tapestry of the imperial experience in ancient Rome. Suetonius employs a unique narrative style that combines anecdotal evidence and historical data, thus offering readers insights into the social and cultural contexts of the era. The work stands out for its focus on the personalities behind the power, exploring themes such as ambition, decadence, and the moral complexities of leadership. Suetonius's meticulous attention to detail and emphasis on character traits have made the 'Lives of the Caesars' an invaluable resource for historians and a captivating read for those interested in the intricacies of power, governance, and personal vices in the Roman Empire.
Who was the first Roman emperor chronicled by Suetonius in 'Lives of the Caesars'?
A) Caligula
B) Augustus
C) Julius Caesar
D) Tiberius
- 2. Suetonius reports that which emperor appointed his horse, Incitatus, to the priesthood?
A) Caligula
B) Claudius
C) Nero
D) Elagabalus
- 3. Which emperor was described by Suetonius as having a fondness for disguising himself and roaming the streets at night?
A) Hadrian
B) Augustus
C) Titus
D) Nero
- 4. Suetonius wrote that this emperor was obsessed with building and famously said 'I found Rome a city of bricks and left it a city of marble'.
A) Hadrian
B) Vespasian
C) Trajan
D) Augustus
- 5. Which emperor was described by Suetonius as having a physical disability, including a limp and a stammer?
A) Claudius
B) Otho
C) Tiberius
D) Galba
- 6. Suetonius reports that this emperor was so paranoid he had the walls of his palace covered in shiny moonstone so he could see reflections of anyone behind him.
A) Caligula
B) Nero
C) Domitian
D) Tiberius
- 7. Which emperor was described by Suetonius as being so frugal he once demanded payment from a man who greeted him with 'Good morning'?
A) Galba
B) Vespasian
C) Claudius
D) Tiberius
- 8. According to Suetonius, which emperor was killed by his own Praetorian Guard, who then auctioned off the position of emperor?
A) Commodus
B) Caracalla
C) Didius Julianus
D) Pertinax
- 9. According to Suetonius, which emperor was so loved by the people that he was declared 'delight of the human race'?
A) Augustus
B) Trajan
C) Antoninus Pius
D) Titus
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