Commodus Becomes Sole Emperor of Rome
Commodus succeeded his father, Marcus Aurelius, as the sole emperor of the Roman Empire at just eighteen years old. His ascension marked a significant transition in leadership, shifting from the philosophical governance of his father to a reign that would be characterized by excess and unpredictability. Commodus's early reign focused on consolidating power and establishing his authority, but he also embraced the extravagant lifestyle of a Roman emperor, leading to a controversial legacy.
Commodus was only 18 when he became emperor.
He was the son of the philosopher-king Marcus Aurelius.
His reign is marked by a focus on personal pleasures.
Commodus participated in gladiatorial combats.
What Happened?
Commodus was born on August 31, 161, to Marcus Aurelius and his wife, Faustina the Younger. Growing up, he was groomed for leadership in the ever-expanding Roman Empire. Following his father's death, a pivotal moment in Roman history occurred as Commodus, still a teenager at eighteen, took the throne. This ascent was notable as Marcus Aurelius was not just any emperor; he was renowned for his Stoic philosophy and leadership during challenging times. The transition from Marcus, who ideologically upheld the principles of duty and virtue, to Commodus, who favored personal pleasure and spectacle, was jarring for the empire.Commodus’s reign began with promise, but it quickly devolved into a more autocratic style of leadership. He was fascinated with gladiatorial games and would participate in combats, an unusual practice for an emperor. Commodus also sought legitimacy through a series of public displays, often portraying himself as the reincarnation of Hercules. His reign saw increased reliance on the military, the decline of senatorial power, and growing discontent among Roman elites. As tensions rose, his actions would sow the seeds of instability that would challenge the cohesion of the empire. This misalignment between his personal extravagance and the Roman ideals led to significant unrest among the aristocracy.
Why Does it Matter?
Commodus's ascendance marked the beginning of a period often referred to as the Crisis of the Third Century, which would ultimately lead to significant transformations within the Roman Empire. His governance style and prioritization of personal interest over public duty contributed to political corruption and economic instability. Commodus's actions prompted more military-based emperors, changing the traditional structure of Roman governance and leading to a reevaluation of the role of an emperor in Roman society. This phase of instability would create power vacuums and generate subsequent leadership issues, influencing Rome's trajectory for centuries to come.