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Nobody S Story Suetonius

Eugene Scott

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Suetonius' "The Lives of the Twelve Caesars" is a captivating historical account of the Roman emperors from Julius Caesar to Domitian, offering a detailed and often salacious glimpse into their personal lives, political machinations, and the tumultuous events that shaped the Roman Empire during their reigns.

The Nobody Story

Among the many intriguing anecdotes and historical details in Suetonius' work is the story of "the nobody," an enigmatic figure who briefly held the imperial throne during the chaotic Year of the Four Emperors in 69 AD.

Vitellius' Folly

The story begins with the death of Emperor Nero in June of 69 AD. The resulting power vacuum plunged the Roman Empire into a civil war known as the Year of the Four Emperors. During this tumultuous period, four generals vied for the throne: Galba, Otho, Vitellius, and Vespasian.

Nobody's Story

by Suetonius

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1894 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	10 pages

After defeating Otho's forces, Vitellius emerged victorious and entered Rome in triumph. However, his reign was short-lived and marked by incompetence and debauchery. Vitellius indulged in excessive feasting and lavish spectacles, while neglecting his imperial duties.

The Nobody's Appearance

Amidst the chaos of Vitellius' reign, a rumor spread throughout Rome that a "nobody" had been found living in the city. This individual, whose name and origins remain unknown, claimed to be the son of Germanicus, a popular general and the nephew of Emperor Tiberius.

The rumor quickly gained traction among the disgruntled Roman populace, who were eager for a change of leadership. Seeing an opportunity, Vitellius' opponents rallied around the so-called "nobody," promising a better and more just rule.

The Nobody's Rise and Fall

As Vitellius' unpopularity grew, the "nobody's" support swelled. A crowd of people gathered at the Capitoline Hill and proclaimed him emperor. However, his reign lasted only for a brief period.

Vitellius' supporters remained loyal, but they were far outnumbered by the forces of Vespasian, who had emerged as the strongest contender for the throne. Vespasian's legions marched on Rome, defeating Vitellius' forces and putting an end to his reign.

The "nobody" was captured along with Vitellius and executed in public. His true identity and motives remain shrouded in mystery, making him one of the most enigmatic figures in Roman history.

The Significance of the Nobody Story

The "nobody story" serves as a reminder of the unpredictable and often chaotic nature of power struggles in ancient Rome. It highlights the fragility of imperial authority and the ease with which a charismatic or opportunist figure could seize the throne during periods of instability.

Furthermore, the story sheds light on the importance of public opinion in the Roman Empire. The "nobody's" brief rise to power demonstrates that even the most obscure individuals could garner significant support if they were seen as representing a change from an unpopular or oppressive ruler.

Suetonius' Perspective

Suetonius' account of the "nobody story" is filled with his characteristic wit and historical rigor. He portrays Vitellius as a gluttonous and incompetent emperor who succumbed to the perils of absolute power. Conversely, he leaves the identity and motives of the "nobody" ambiguous, allowing readers to speculate on the nature of this mysterious figure.

Cultural Impact

The "nobody story" has had a lasting impact on Western literature and popular culture. It has inspired literary works, such as Shakespeare's "Julius Caesar," and historical novels, such as Robert Graves' "I, Claudius." It has also been used as an allegory for the dangers of unchecked ambition and the fleeting nature of power.

Suetonius' "The Lives of the Twelve Caesars" is a treasure trove of historical information and entertaining anecdotes. The "nobody story" is one of its most compelling and thought-provoking tales, offering a glimpse into the turbulent world of Roman politics and the enigmatic nature of power.

Nobody's Story

by Suetonius

4.2 out of 5