Emperors of Rome - La Trobe University

Latest Episodes:

Episode XIII - The Rule of Caligula Jan 05, 2015

Show notes

When Caligula became emperor there was a lot of expectations after the disappointing neglect of Tiberius. But for an emperor with such a short time in power he had a lasting impact on the Roman Empire.

Dr Rhiannon Evans (Mediterranean Studies, La Trobe University) and host Matt Smith discuss the promising beginning of the reign of Caligula.

Episode XII - Tiberius the Gloomiest of Men Dec 22, 2014

Show notes

Tiberius has withdrawn to a life of seclusion on the island of Capri, and while he’s there he loses control of both Rome and his reputation.

Dr Rhiannon Evans (Mediterranean Studies, La Trobe University) and host Matt Smith look at the downfall of Tiberius, his trashed reputation, and the scheme of Sejanus.

Episode XI - Tiberius the Reluctant Emperor Dec 15, 2014

Show notes

Tiberius became emperor of Rome at the relatively advanced age of 55. He was well-known as a military commander and was popular with the soldiers, but history portrays him as a reluctant leader.

Dr Rhiannon Evans (Mediterranean Studies, La Trobe University) and host Matt Smith discuss the reality of Tiberius.

Episode X - The Augustan Succession Dec 08, 2014

Show notes

After a lengthy reign of 41 years the Emperor Augustus needs to designate his successor, and after a number of candidates die young he is left with limited options.

Dr Rhiannon Evans (Mediterranean Studies, La Trobe University) and host Matt Smith look at Augustus' succession problem and how he secures his legacy.

Interlude - Pax Romana Dec 02, 2014

Show notes

Pax Romana - the 'Roman peace' was a long period of relative peace experienced by the Roman Empire, and is said to have been established during the rule of Augustus.

Dr Rhiannon Evans (Mediterranean Studies, La Trobe University) and host Matt Smith look at the contemporary views of peace and how Augustus used it to his advantage.

Episode IX - Augustan Rome Nov 24, 2014

Show notes

During Augustus’ time as emperor he had a lasting impact on Rome, during which culture thrived and there was extensive building projects.

Dr Rhiannon Evans (Mediterranean Studies, La Trobe University) and host Matt Smith look at Augustan Rome’s good and bad - from culture to censorship.

Episode VIII - The Augustan Revolution Nov 14, 2014

Show notes

Augustus was the founder of the Roman Empire and its first emperor, and after the tumultuous rule of Caesar he enjoyed a long reign.

Dr Rhiannon Evans (Mediterranean Studies, La Trobe University) and host Matt Smith look at how he came to power and whether he was a man of war or peace.

Interlude - What is an Emperor? Oct 15, 2014

Show notes

What does the word 'emperor' mean and who can it be applied to in Rome's history?

Dr Rhiannon Evans (Mediterranean Studies, La Trobe University) and host Matt Smith look at what the emperors called themselves in antiquity, and why the title doesn't apply to Julius Caesar.

Episode VII - The Legacy of Caesar Jun 23, 2014

Show notes

For someone who had power for a short amount of time, Caesar’s impact is undeniable.

Dr Rhiannon Evans (Mediterranean Studies, La Trobe University) and host Matt Smith look at the impact of Julius Caesar – the veneration, the public works in his name, and the attempts of emperors to style themselves in his image.

Episode VI - The Death of Caesar Jun 10, 2014

Show notes

Between winning the civil war and holding power, Caesar's won the support of the people of Rome, but gains more than one enemy in the Roman Senate.

Dr Rhiannon Evans (Ancient Mediterranean Studies, La Trobe University) and host Matt Smith look at Caesar's great downfall.