Source edition
Suetonius. De Vita Caesarum Libri VIII. Ihm, Max, editor; Leipzig: Teubner, 1908.
Source data
Perseus Digital Library · CC BY-SA (per Perseus's terms)
Cloned and adapted by Humanitext, with ongoing edits.
Summary
This biographical work depicts the life and character of the Roman Emperor Titus, from his birth to his untimely death. The narrative begins with his early years, highlighting his exceptional talents, military career, and achievements in the Jewish War, as well as the decline in his reputation due to his harsh administration while co-ruling with his father Vespasian. However, the focus shifts to his dramatic transformation upon ascending the throne, demonstrating his immense generosity through the dismissal of his beloved Berenice, the hosting of grand spectacles, and his compassionate relief efforts during disasters. Finally, the work details the extraordinary clemency he showed toward conspirators and his brother Domitian, concluding with his sudden death, the ominous portents that preceded it, and the grand eulogies bestowed upon him by the Senate.