Historia Augusta
Latin · Geography · Biography
4 works · 1,067 aligned sentences
Aelius
This biographical work depicts the life of Aelius Verus, who was adopted by Emperor Hadrian, as part of an effort to record the lives of those who held only the title of "Caesar" without becoming emperors. The author dedicates the work to Emperor Diocletian, beginning with theories on the origin of the name "Caesar" and Aelius's ancestry. The narrative then outlines Aelius's political career and his extremely frail health, revealing that Hadrian had foreseen his early death through astrological knowledge. It also details various anecdotes regarding Aelius's hedonistic lifestyle, luxurious private life, and unique tastes. Finally, the work concludes by describing Aelius's sudden death, Hadrian's subsequent adoption of Antoninus Pius, and the author's underlying motivations for writing.
Geography3 chunks · §1-2–§5-7230 aligned sentencesRead →Didius Julianus
This historical work depicts the brief reign and tragic downfall of Didius Julianus, a Roman emperor of the late second century. The narrative begins with an account of his origins and early career, leading to his acquisition of the imperial throne through the backing of the Praetorian Guard after the assassination of Emperor Pertinax, which immediately sparks public outrage. Exposed to the hostility of the populace, Julianus faces further crises as generals such as Niger and Severus rise in rebellion. In his desperation, he attempts various countermeasures, including sending assassins, offering joint rule, and even resorting to magic, but all his efforts fail to stabilize his position. Ultimately, abandoned by all his supporters, Julianus is deposed by a decree of the Senate and assassinated in his palace, making way for Severus to become the new emperor.
Geography3 chunks · §1-3–§7-9366 aligned sentencesRead →Geta
This historical biography depicts the short life and tragic end of Geta, the co-emperor of Rome and second son of Emperor Septimius Severus. The narrative begins by detailing how his father bestowed the prestigious name "Antoninus" upon Geta, alongside various ominous portents that foreshadowed his untimely death. It then introduces personal anecdotes from Geta's childhood and youth, highlighting his excellent qualities and unique habits. However, after ascending to power as co-emperor, Geta met a violent end when he was assassinated by his elder brother Caracalla. The latter part of the work describes the reign of terror that ensued following the assassination, as well as the ironic posthumous deification of Geta by Caracalla, leaving a vivid account of the brutal struggle for imperial power.
Geography2 chunks · §1-3–§4-7241 aligned sentencesRead →The Two Valerians
This work is a historical narrative recording the lives of the Roman Emperor Valerian (Valerian the Elder), famous for his capture by the Persians, and his son, Valerian the Younger. The first half describes the international situation following Valerian's capture by the Persian King Shapur I, where neighboring rulers warn of Rome's resilient power and urge his release, followed by Odenathus of Palmyra's military repulsion of the Persians. It then recounts an earlier episode from Valerian's life before becoming emperor, detailing how he was earnestly requested by Emperor Decius to assume the censorship but declined due to his modesty and high principles. The second half briefly touches upon the short life of his son, Valerian the Younger, and corrects a misunderstanding regarding his epitaph. Finally, the author concludes the accounts of the two Valerians and announces the transition to the biographies of Gallienus and others in the subsequent volume.
Geography2 chunks · §1-5–§6-8230 aligned sentencesRead →