Caligula

From heir to emperor to megalomaniac, Caligula rises through charisma and terror. His early charm quickly gives way to volatile whims, public cruelties, and a god-complex that unsettles Rome. He relies on loyalty from allies like Longinus and Chaerea while sacrificing anyone who threatens his hold on power.

Caligula's sister and lover, she exerts influence through proximity and sympathy. She supports his ascent, seeks to stabilize the dynasty, and reluctantly partners in his excesses. Her death braces Caligula and ignites a spiral of paranoia and revenge.

A priestess and notorious courtesan who becomes Caligula's wife and mother to his heir. She navigates court politics with pragmatism, aligning with Caligula's ambitions while sustaining her own influence. Her presence anchors Caligula's domestic life amid public spectacle.

Tiberius's close adviser who embodies a rational counterpoint to the emperor's depravity. His suicide underscores the peril of resisting the ruling circle and the fragility of political alliances.

A former loyal Praetorian Guard chief who helps Caligula consolidate power but becomes a target of political purges. His murder marks a turning point from consolidation to brutal autocracy.

Tiberius's one-time adviser who later conspires with Chaerea to topple Caligula. He embodies the dangerous politics of the era, where influence among the elite can precipitate assassination.

A key conspirator and Praetorian guard leader who joins Longinus in the plot against Caligula. His actions reveal the fragility of loyalty and the appetite for regime change within the army.

Grandson of Tiberius, positioned as a manipulated witness and pawn in Caligula's downfall. His fear and vulnerability highlight the personal costs of imperial politics.

Caligula's wary uncle who ultimately rises to the throne after the coup. His presence signals a conservative shift and the restoration of a traditional imperial line after chaos.

Macro's wife who is banished from Rome as part of Caligula's political purges. Her fate illustrates the reach of courtly power into private lives.

A figure from the imperial household, representing the long shadow of Rome's ruling families and the dynastic politics that color Caligula's reign.