Gibbon recounts some of the virtues of Marcus Aurelius, and comments that Commodus was too young when his father made him emperor at 15. Upon the death of his father (in Vienna) during a campaign against the Germans, Commodus assumed sole power at the age of 19. He is depicted as weak, but not wicked, subjected to the counsel of his advisors.
An early attempt on his life, orchestrated by his elder sister Lucilla, leaves him suspicious, fearful and hateful of the senate. What ensued was a reign of cruelty, and many innocent victims of his tyranny were executed. Suspicion was considered proof. Perennis, an ambitious minister, and his son were executed while Cleander, an ex-slave replaced him. Corruption prevailed, allowing the buying and selling of privileges. Cleander created such discontent that a Civil war erupted in Rome, which was only appeased when Commodus threw Cleander's head to the crowd.
Commodus did not pursue any of the finer arts, but indulged in sport, which led him to perform as a gladiator in the arena, styling himself the Roman Hercules. By this time he had practically deified himself. He killed many exotic animals in the arena, re-enacting the heroic deeds of the gods.
His favourite concubine Marcia, his chamberlain Eclectus and his Praetorian praefect Laetus were alarmed at the fate of their companions and predecessors, and pre-empted Commodus by poisoning and then strangling him.
Pertinax, who had served the empire in many capacities, replaced Commodus and became the first of five emperors in this tumultuous year 193. Pertinax tried to correct the excesses of his predecessor, which was welcomed by the populace. This was a disappointment to Laetus the Praetorian Praefect, as well as the guards. They had expected to be able to influence the new Emperor and were disappointed. This led to their march on the imperial palace and the assassination of Pertinax just 3 short months into his reign.
Commodus did not pursue any of the finer arts, but indulged in sport, which led him to perform as a gladiator in the arena, styling himself the Roman Hercules. By this time he had practically deified himself. He killed many exotic animals in the arena, re-enacting the heroic deeds of the gods.
His favourite concubine Marcia, his chamberlain Eclectus and his Praetorian praefect Laetus were alarmed at the fate of their companions and predecessors, and pre-empted Commodus by poisoning and then strangling him.
Pertinax, who had served the empire in many capacities, replaced Commodus and became the first of five emperors in this tumultuous year 193. Pertinax tried to correct the excesses of his predecessor, which was welcomed by the populace. This was a disappointment to Laetus the Praetorian Praefect, as well as the guards. They had expected to be able to influence the new Emperor and were disappointed. This led to their march on the imperial palace and the assassination of Pertinax just 3 short months into his reign.
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