Join Associate Professor Caillan Davenport, an expert in Roman history, as he unpacks the tumultuous rise of Carus and his sons during a chaotic era in the 3rd century. They discuss the challenges Carus faced from internal strife after Probus's death and his military exploits. The podcast dives into the mysterious circumstances of Carus's sudden demise, shrouded in lightning and legends. Additionally, they explore the complex dynamics of power struggles and the unreliable accounts from the Historia Augusta, shedding light on the fragile state of the Roman Empire.
Carus's ascension followed Probus's controversial death, highlighting the struggle for power and leadership amid Rome's internal chaos.
The successful campaigns against Persia underscored Carus's military acumen and the strategic advantage his familial structure provided in the face of external threats.
Deep dives
The Rise of Carus and the Challenges Ahead
The ascension of Carus to the Roman throne followed the death of Probus, his confusion surrounding the circumstances of Probus's demise, and the challenges he would face as emperor. There are conflicting accounts of Probus's death, suggesting that either his troops, fed up with labor demands, turned against him or that Carus's rebellion played a role in his downfall. The situation presented Carus with an imperial dynasty already in place, consisting of his two sons, Carinus and Numerian, which allowed for delegation of pressing military concerns on multiple fronts. This family structure was essential to managing the empire's growing challenges, with Carinus defending the western front while Carus and Numerian moved to tackle the threats posed by Persia in the east.
Military Success and the Persian Campaign
Carus and Numerian's campaigns against Persia were characterized by swift military success, including the capture of the Persian capital, Ctesiphon, within a short span. This offensive was strategically timed, as the Persian Shahanshah, Bahram II, faced internal rebellions, rendering him vulnerable. Their impressive feat not only highlighted their military prowess but also culminated in Carus receiving the title of 'Persicus Maximus,' showcasing his achievements to Rome. Anecdotes from later historians, particularly concerning Carus' reputed confidence and bold leadership style during encounters with Persian ambassadors, emphasize his strengths as an emperor, even suggesting a touch of humor that endeared him to his troops.
The Short-lived Dynastic Legacy
Carus's reign was abruptly cut short when he reportedly died during a military campaign, with sources suggesting he was struck by lightning. His passing left his son Numerian to navigate the political turmoil, leading to his untimely demise under suspicious circumstances, thereby paving the way for Diocletian's rise to power. Following their deaths, the reputation of Carinus, the surviving son, was marred by negative accounts that portrayed him as a dissolute leader, influenced by the propaganda of his rival Diocletian. These narratives and the eventual downfalls of Carus’s sons reflect the turbulent dynamics of succession and the complex interplay of power within the Roman Empire during this tumultuous period.
As the wild and crazy experiment of the 3rd century winds to a conclusion, a man named Carus steps into the purple, with an imperial dynasty ready to go. But Rome has grown unwieldy. Challenged by enemies from beyond and within, it will take quite a leader to hold the empire together.
Guest:
Associate Professor Caillan Davenport (Head of the Centre for Classical Studies at the Australian National University)
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