534. Emperors of Rome: Sex Secrets of the Caesars (Part 1)

Suetonius' Access

Suetonius, a key figure in Roman historiography, gained unparalleled access to imperial archives, which significantly influenced his accounts of the Caesars. Tom Holland explains that Suetonius worked closely in the Imperial archives and Roman libraries, eventually becoming a senior secretary under Emperor Hadrian, which allowed him to handle all correspondence 1. This access provided him with a wealth of historical documents, shaping his biographies of the emperors. However, his career faced a setback due to a scandal involving Hadrian's wife, leading to his dismissal 1. Dominic Sandbrook notes the ambivalence in Suetonius's reputation, as his works inspired both admiration and controversy throughout history 2.

   

Enduring Influence

Suetonius's biographies have left a lasting impact on the understanding of Roman emperors, influencing literature and popular culture. Dominic Sandbrook highlights how these texts were perceived during the Renaissance and Victorian times, often serving as a source of fascination and scandal 3. The narratives of sex and violence in Suetonius's works have inspired modern adaptations, such as Robert Graves's novels and the BBC series "I, Claudius," which capture the melodrama of the Roman imperial family 4. Tom Holland draws parallels between these historical accounts and contemporary TV dramas, noting their enduring appeal 4.