Commodus, the son of Marcus Aurelius, ascended to the Roman throne in 180 AD and his reign of terror continued until his assassination in 192 AD.
Commodus: The Epitome of Despotic Rule
Commodus’ reign was a blend of madness, savagery, and unmediated autocracy. He expressed scant regard for the Senate and often made decisions based on his whims. He was notorious for his unwarranted killings and purges of the Senate, unleashing a climate of fear within the political spheres.
His despotism extended to his point of self-deification, considering himself a reincarnation of the Greek god, Hercules. He regularly took part in gladiatorial games, often slaughtering defenseless opponents, causing public distress and resentment.
Comments
0 comment