Betwixt The Sheets: The History of Sex, Scandal & Society History's Worst F*ckboys: Emperor Caligula
12 snips
Apr 10, 2025 Join historian Alexander Meddings, a Rome-based expert on ancient history, as he dives into the life of Emperor Caligula, known for his bizarre and scandalous reign. They discuss Caligula's infamous actions, including his obsession with his sister and making his horse a senator. Meddings sheds light on the chaos of Caligula’s rule, his erratic behavior, and the political intrigues that defined his time. Laugh and cringe at the absurdity of his marriages and the violent downfall that ultimately ended his tyrannical reign.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Caligula's upbringing on Capri
- Caligula was raised by Tiberius on Capri after his family's demise.
- While there, Caligula engaged in disguised escapades of gluttony and adultery, tolerated by Tiberius to calm his vicious nature.
Caligula's early reign
- Upon Tiberius's death, Caligula became emperor and was initially popular.
- He lowered taxes, published accounts, and hosted lavish games, including showering people with gold.
Caligula's illness and relationships with his sisters
- Caligula's reign changed after a severe illness, possibly a breakdown, leading to revenge and erratic behavior.
- His close relationship with his sister, Drusilla, was genuine, while incest accusations with other sisters seem fabricated.