Ep 1. Caligula

Ancients Behaving Badly is a fascinating and informative series that takes a closer look at some of history's most notorious figures. Each episode delves into the life and times of a different figure, exploring their achievements, their flaws, and the impact they had on the world around them.

In the first episode of the series, we delve into the life of Caligula, one of ancient Rome's most infamous rulers. Born in AD 12, Caligula was a member of the Julio-Claudian dynasty and ascended to the throne in AD 37, at the age of just 25. During his short reign, Caligula became known for his outrageous behavior and brutal policies, earning himself a reputation as one of history's most tyrannical rulers.

The episode begins by examining Caligula's early years, revealing that he was a popular and well-respected figure in Rome during his youth. However, after the death of his father, Caligula's life took a dark turn. He was forced to flee Rome to escape the wrath of his uncle, the emperor Tiberius, who had become paranoid and tyrannical in his old age. Caligula spent several years in exile, during which time he was reportedly subjected to brutal treatment by his captors.

After Tiberius died in AD 37, Caligula was able to return to Rome and assume the throne. At first, his reign was marked by a series of reforms and positive changes, as he abolished some of Tiberius' more corrupt policies and helped to repair the damage done by his uncle's paranoid rule. However, it wasn't long before Caligula's darker side began to emerge.

The episode explores some of Caligula's most notorious actions, including his penchant for cruelty and sadism. Among other things, Caligula was known for his love of extravagant parties, his fondness for gladiatorial games, and his tendency to engage in outrageous acts of sexual behavior. He also had a habit of executing anyone who crossed him, no matter how minor the offense.

Despite his brutality, Caligula was also a deeply insecure ruler. He was paranoid about assassination attempts and was obsessed with his own image and reputation. This led him to engage in some truly bizarre behavior, including declaring himself a god and insisting that everyone in Rome worship him as one.

As the episode draws to a close, we learn about the events that eventually led to Caligula's downfall. After several years of increasingly erratic behavior, Caligula was assassinated in AD 41 by a group of conspirators. His death marked the end of a tumultuous and often terrifying reign, and his name has gone down in history as a byword for tyranny and excess.

Overall, the first episode of Ancients Behaving Badly provides a fascinating and illuminating look into the life of one of history's most notorious figures. Through a combination of expert analysis and dramatic reenactments, viewers are given a window into the world of ancient Rome and the twisted mind of a tyrant. Whether you're a history buff or simply curious about the darker side of human nature, this episode is sure to captivate and intrigue you.