This paper aims at focusing on one particular aspect of Velleius Paterculus’ work, which was published in A.D. 30. Velleius designed the portrait of the unfortunate prince, and possible successor of Augustus, Gaius Caesar (20 B.C-A.D. 4) by adhering to the political climate of his own time, and depicted Gaius as a sort of anti-Princeps in order to legitimate the position of the Princeps Tiberius in the light of the delicate dynastic situation being experienced at Rome in A.D. 30. In this respect, Velleius sets up an indirect opposition between Gaius and Tiberius. This provides the opportunity to consider the work of Velleius from a new perspective, not just as a mere literary product echoing current propaganda, but as a work of actual political value.
Gaius Caesar, or the Ideal Non-princeps: A Tiberian Issue
PISTELLATO, ANTONIO
2013-01-01
Abstract
This paper aims at focusing on one particular aspect of Velleius Paterculus’ work, which was published in A.D. 30. Velleius designed the portrait of the unfortunate prince, and possible successor of Augustus, Gaius Caesar (20 B.C-A.D. 4) by adhering to the political climate of his own time, and depicted Gaius as a sort of anti-Princeps in order to legitimate the position of the Princeps Tiberius in the light of the delicate dynastic situation being experienced at Rome in A.D. 30. In this respect, Velleius sets up an indirect opposition between Gaius and Tiberius. This provides the opportunity to consider the work of Velleius from a new perspective, not just as a mere literary product echoing current propaganda, but as a work of actual political value.
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