How To Academy Podcast Tom Holland Meets Armando Iannucci — What The Lives of the Caesars Can Teach Us About Politics
11 snips
May 8, 2026 
Tom Holland, historian and bestselling author known for Rubicon and Dominion, discusses his translation of Suetonius' Lives of the Caesars. Short, vivid portraits of Rome’s first rulers and their scandals. Conversations range from Augustus’ political theater and imperial succession to Caligula, Nero and the Year of the Four Emperors. Reflections link Roman politics, public image and modern parallels.
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Augustus Becomes The Political Template
- Augustus' long, detailed biography establishes him as the template against which later emperors are judged and legitimises the imperial model.
- Holland explains that after Augustus, monopoly on violence becomes the real test of being Caesar, shown in AD 69's rapid turnovers.
Modern Politics Echoes Roman Republican Collapse
- American political concerns echo Rome's fall of the Republic: media abuse, legal prosecutions and erosion of norms mimic late-Republic tactics.
- Holland notes founders feared collapse too; Benjamin Franklin warned 'a republic, if you can keep it.'
Suetonius' Detailed Account Of Caesar's Assassination
- Suetonius gives a vivid, detailed account of Julius Caesar's assassination day, more than any other Roman day.
- Holland emphasises Suetonius records Caesar's talents yet frames the murder as justified for aspiring to kingship.
