The Lives of the Twelve Caesars: Annotated

Suetonius’ Lives of the Twelve Caesars, translated by J. C. Rolfe, offers an unparalleled look into the personal lives, virtues, and vices of the first twelve rulers of the Roman Empire, from Julius Caesar to Domitian. Written by the Roman historian Suetonius in the early 2nd century CE, this collection of biographies provides a vivid, often scandalous account of the emperors who shaped Rome’s transformation from Republic to Empire. Unlike traditional historical narratives, Suetonius delves into the intimate details of the emperors’ personalities, private habits, and eccentricities, drawing on firsthand accounts, imperial records, and rumors from the court. He reveals both their public achievements and their darker sides–Caesar’s ambition, Augustus’ political brilliance, Caligula’s madness, and Nero’s debauchery–while also exploring the moral and political lessons that emerge from their reigns. This translation by J. C. Rolfe brings Suetonius’ lively, engaging prose to modern readers, offering a fascinating window into the nature of power and the often fragile human beings behind the facade of imperial majesty. Lives of the Twelve Caesars remains a timeless study of leadership, excess, and the price of empire, making it essential reading for anyone interested in Roman history, political intrigue, and the complexities of absolute rule.