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Emperors of Rome
Episode CCXXXIII - The Rise of Diocles (Diocletian I)
Nov 20, 2024
Associate Professor Caillan Davenport, an expert in Roman history, discusses the intriguing rise of Diocletian, an emperor with humble origins who transformed Rome into a franchise opportunity. The conversation highlights Diocletian's military strategies and his pivotal partnership with Maximian, showcasing their unique co-emperor dynamic during a troubled time. Davenport also explores how oratorical skills were crucial in shaping imperial identity, especially against the backdrop of early Christian tensions and the Great Persecution.
31:52
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Quick takeaways
- Diocletian's rise to power, marked by a significant name change, reflected his strategic approach to establish authority and stability in a crisis-ridden Rome.
- The introduction of Maximian as co-emperor showcased Diocletian's vision for a collaborative governance model to effectively address the empire's multifaceted challenges.
Deep dives
The Unremarkable Origins of Diocletian
Diocletian, originally named Gaius Valerius Diocles, rose to prominence from unremarkable beginnings, with a background likely linked to the Danubian military elite. His military career began under Emperor Carus, and after taking decisive action by killing the Praetorian prefect Appa, he was proclaimed emperor in 284 AD. This transition marked a significant shift in power dynamics, as Diocletian recognized the challenges facing Rome and sought to create a stable administration amidst threats. His rise also came with a name change to Diocletian, a move that helped redefine his imperial identity and emphasize his authority as an emperor.
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