In a brazen display of arrogance, Commodus even declared himself a god, demanding to be worshipped as such. His ego knew no bounds as he sought to elevate himself above mortal status, disregarding the traditional reverence for the gods of Rome.
The Decline of Virtue
Commodus, once hailed as the son of Marcus Aurelius, deviated from the stoic virtues upheld by his predecessor. Instead, he indulged in debauchery and cruelty, squandering the empire’s resources on lavish spectacles and personal gratification.
Emperor Commodus even declared himself a god
A Reign of brutality
Throughout Commodus’ reign, he swiftly and brutally punished dissenters. Fuelled by paranoia, he purged those he perceived as threats, including senators and military commanders. This created an atmosphere of fear and instability that permeated the entire empire.
Gladiatorial Extravagance
The emperor’s obsession with gladiatorial combat reached unprecedented heights, as he often participated in staged battles himself, relishing in the bloodshed and adulation of the crowds. His reign became synonymous with the spectacle of death and violence.
The Decay of Governance
As Commodus prioritized his own desires over the welfare of the empire, administrative neglect became rampant. Corruption flourished, and public services deteriorated, exacerbating the already precarious state of the Roman economy and infrastructure.
The End of an Era
In the end, Commodus met a dramatic demise as his own court members orchestrated a conspiracy to assassinate him. His death signaled the close of a grim period in Roman history, leaving behind a legacy of tyranny and megalomania. It stands as a stark reminder of the perils that accompany unbridled authority.
Commodus fervently believed he was the reincarnation of Hercules
Commodus firmly embraced the notion of being Hercules reborn, convinced of his destined greatness. He adorned himself with Hercules’ symbols, portraying himself as the hero incarnate. This belief fueled his ambition, shaping his actions and decisions as emperor. Commodus sought to emulate Hercules’ legendary strength and valor, striving to leave a lasting mark on history. However, this delusion of grandeur blinded him to the realities of governance, leading to a reign marked by excess and tyranny. Ultimately, his obsession with divine status contributed to Rome’s decline, tarnishing his legacy in the annals of history.