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Hadrian as a Ruler

Submitted by rmmcdonald on Sun, 10/27/2019 - 12:17

I find it interesting how Roman rulers follow a similar, cyclical pattern over time. A strong, diplomatic ruler will be in command and have complete trust of the Empire, like Augustus or Trajan. These rulers create buildings and events that benefit the public in addition to having a healthy relationship with the senate. In the case of Trajan and many other Roman rulers, when it came to pick an heir he never quite fully endorsed an individual. Hadrian rose to power nonetheless and fell into the downfalls of princeps that previously followed great rulers. Like Tiberius, Hadrian attacked the senate and any insubordinate military officers. He also separated himself from Rome, residing in a  "massive villa he built for himself at Tivoli". Again, Hadrian follows all the steps of a reckless and apathetic princep that passed poor rulers took. By ignoring the senate and the people of Rome Hadrian intensified his bad reputation. 

 

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