Can I read Commodus : An Emperor at the Crossroads on EtoBox?

Commodus : An Emperor at the Crossroads by Olivier Hekster is a nonfiction available to read on EtoBox.

What is Commodus : An Emperor at the Crossroads about?

The emperor Commodus (AD 180-192) has commonly been portrayed as an insane madman, whose reign marked the beginning of the end of the Roman Empire. Indeed, the main point of criticism on his father, Marcus Aurelius, is that he appointed his son as his successor. Especially Commodus’ behaviour as a gladiator, and the way he represented himself with divine attributes (especially those of Hercules), are often used as evidence for the emperor’s presumed madness. However, this ‘political biography’ will apply modern interpretations of the spectacles in the arena, and of the imperial cult, to Commodus' reign. It will focus on the dissemination and reception of imperial images, and suggest that there was a method in Commodus’ madness.

Who reads Commodus : An Emperor at the Crossroads?

Author

Olivier Hekster

Publisher

Koninklijke Brill N.V.

Published

2021

Language

EN

ISBN

9789050632386

Category

nonfiction

Subjects

Science, History, Humanities