Join Associate Professor Caillan Davenport, a Roman history expert, as he delves into the tumultuous late third century. Discuss intriguing power dynamics following Emperor Aurelian's assassination and the Senate's waning influence. Explore Tacitus’s unique leadership style, from military wins in Thrace to his audacious choice to demolish his home for the public good. Unpack the reliability of ancient sources detailing Tacitus's life and examine the chaotic circumstances surrounding his assassination. A compelling look at a pivotal moment in Roman history!
Aurelian's assassination shifted the balance of power, highlighting the Senate's contentious decision to appoint Tacitus amid military dominance.
Tacitus' military successes against the Goths enhanced his reputation but his sudden death exemplified the Empire's ongoing instability and power struggles.
Deep dives
The Aftermath of Aurelian's Murder
Aurelian's assassination led to significant turmoil within the Roman Empire, as it marked the end of a leader who had successfully reunited Rome. Following his death, the Senate attempted to exercise its authority by appointing Marcus Claudius Tacitus as the new emperor, a decision that was historically contentious due to the army's usual dominance in the selection process. Sources indicate a notable delay in the proclamation of Tacitus, attributed to a brief interregnum after Aurelian's demise, during which no one was immediately acclaimed as emperor. This period of uncertainty raised questions about the balance of power between the Senate and the military in the wake of Aurelian's violent end and set the stage for the unique political climate of the era.
Tacitus: The Senatorial and Military Background
Marcus Claudius Tacitus was highlighted as a significant figure with a complex background, straddling the line between senatorial elite and military command. While ancient sources describe him as a venerable senator, new scholarship suggests he might have had roots in the military elite, complicating his historical identity. Debate continues over his age and fitness to lead, as Tacitus ascended to the role of emperor at the advanced age of 75, sparking conversations about leadership capabilities in Rome's political narrative. The contrasting perspectives on his legitimacy, coupled with the tension between senatorial and military relationships, reflect the broader struggles for power during a turbulent period in the Empire.
Tacitus' Military Campaigns and Downfall
Emperor Tacitus made notable military strides against the Black Sea Goths, achieving significant victories that brought peace to parts of Asia Minor and solidified his reputation as an effective leader. His administration focused on reinforcing Roman territories and he gained the title of Gothicus Maximus, indicative of his triumphs against the invading forces. However, his reign was cut short after just over a year due to unclear circumstances surrounding his death, with both disease and conspiracy suggested as potential causes. His unexpected demise signified a return to instability, as Marcus Annius Florianus, his successor, faced immediate challenges that culminated in his rapid overthrow, demonstrating the fragile nature of power in the Empire during this era.
We now return to the late third century, where the Emperor Aurelian has finally reunited the Roman empire and been murdered for the trouble, and the senate in Rome, waning in its influence, makes a final flex of power.
Tickets are now on sale for our special 10th anniversary live screening of the movie Gladiator! 19th October at the Thornbury Picture House in Melbourne.
Guest:
Associate Professor Caillan Davenport (Head of the Centre for Classical Studies at the Australian National University)
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