the chronological and geographical context of Rome in the Mediterranean and the Near East, key powers in the region and the nature of contact with other societies
Focus of study Development of the principate, including:
impact of the death of Augustus
changing role of the princeps under the Julio-Claudian rulers: Tiberius, Gaius (Caligula), Claudius, Nero
the Senate: changing role and responsibilities
reforms and policies of the Julio-Claudian rulers: political, social, legal, religious and administrative
changing image of the princeps
political roles of the Praetorian Guard and army, role of Sejanus, Macro and Burrus
significance of building programs
imperial family and problems of the succession: Livia, Julia, Germanicus, Agrippina the Elder, Messalina, Agrippina the Younger
consequences of the death of Nero
role and contribution of Seneca
Year of the Four Emperors: Galba, Otho, Vitellius, Vespasian
The empire, including:
expansion and consolidation of the empire
the relationship of the princeps and the army
administration of the empire: development of the imperial bureaucracy, role of freedmen, Pallas and Narcissus
development of the imperial cult throughout the empire