Commodus

INC-1818-a Ауреус Коммод ок. 186-187 гг. (аверс)

Commodus - Cologne

Commodus denier verso ag1

Commodus, Hermitage Museum

1699 - Archaeological Museum, Athens - A youth, possibly Commodus - Photo by Giovanni Dall'Orto, Nov 11 2009

Denarius of Commodus (YORYM 2000 4292) obverse

Commodus (31 August 161 – 31 December 192) was Roman Emperor from 177 to 192. He was the son of Marcus Aurelius, one of the most respected emperors in Roman history, and his reign marked a significant departure from his father's stoic philosophy and governance. Commodus is often remembered for his eccentricities and perceived madness, which have overshadowed his contributions to the Roman state. His reign is commonly cited as the beginning of the decline of the Roman Empire, a view popularized by the historian Edward Gibbon in his work The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire.

Early Life

Commodus was born Lucius Aurelius Commodus to Marcus Aurelius and Faustina the Younger, making him part of the Nerva–Antonine dynasty. From an early age, he was groomed to succeed his father, receiving an education that emphasized philosophy, governance, and military training. Despite his preparation, his inclination towards leisure and extravagance became evident early on.

Reign

Commodus co-ruled with his father, Marcus Aurelius, from 177 until Aurelius' death in 180. His solo reign began with promises of peace and a return to Roman traditions, but it quickly devolved into a dictatorship characterized by excess and cruelty. Commodus saw himself as the reincarnation of Hercules, often participating in gladiatorial combats, which scandalized the Roman aristocracy and undermined the dignity of the imperial office.

His governance was marked by the increasing influence of favorites and the praetorian guard, leading to instability and corruption within the administration. The Roman economy suffered due to his lavish spending on games and spectacles, as well as his arbitrary taxation policies.

Downfall and Death

Commodus' erratic behavior and autocratic rule led to several conspiracies against him. His assassination on 31 December 192 was orchestrated by a group of conspirators, including his mistress and the praetorian prefect. His death marked the end of the Nerva-Antonine Dynasty and precipitated a year of civil war known as the Year of the Five Emperors.

Legacy

Commodus' reign is often seen as a turning point in the history of the Roman Empire, marking the beginning of its decline. His portrayal in popular culture, most notably in the film Gladiator, has cemented his reputation as a tyrannical and eccentric ruler. However, some historians argue that his reign's negative aspects were exaggerated by his successors to legitimize their own rule.

See Also

• Marcus Aurelius
• Roman Empire
• Year of the Five Emperors
• Gladiator (film)