Did Caracalla Appoint His Monkey as Consul- A Curious Chapter in Roman History
Did Caracalla Make His Monkey Consul?
The reign of Emperor Caracalla, known for its eccentricities, has intrigued historians for centuries. One of the most peculiar tales surrounding this Roman Emperor is whether or not he appointed a monkey as his consul. This bizarre claim has sparked much debate and speculation, leaving many to wonder if it is a mere myth or a fact from history.
Caracalla, born Marcus Aurelius Antoninus, was the son of Emperor Marcus Aurelius and was crowned Emperor at the tender age of 14. During his reign, which lasted from 198 to 217, Caracalla was known for his ruthless policies and eccentric behavior. Among these eccentricities, the story of the monkey consul has become a popular topic of discussion.
The legend of Caracalla’s monkey consul originated from a passage in the Historia Augusta, a collection of biographies of Roman emperors written in the 3rd century. According to this source, Caracalla appointed a monkey as his consul, a position traditionally held by human officials. The monkey was said to have worn a toga and performed various duties in the presence of the Emperor.
Scholars have debated the authenticity of this story for years. Some believe it to be a fabrication, a tale meant to mock Caracalla’s eccentricities. Others argue that the story may have some basis in fact, as Caracalla was known for his bizarre and unconventional actions. The Historia Augusta, although considered a valuable source for Roman history, is also known for its anecdotes and exaggerations.
One possible explanation for the story could be the influence of the Roman satirical writer Juvenal, who lived during the time of Caracalla. Juvenal’s work often contained satirical elements, and it is possible that he used the story of the monkey consul to criticize the Emperor’s excesses and peculiarities.
Another theory suggests that the story may have originated from the fact that Caracalla was a patron of the arts and had a fondness for exotic animals. It is possible that he owned a monkey, which may have been brought along on official occasions, leading to the misconception that the monkey was his consul.
Despite the ongoing debate, the story of Caracalla’s monkey consul remains a captivating tale of the Roman Empire’s most eccentric Emperor. Whether or not the story is true, it serves as a reminder of the rich and often bizarre history of the Roman world. As historians continue to study the reign of Caracalla, the mystery of the monkey consul may one day be solved, shedding light on the mind of one of ancient Rome’s most enigmatic rulers.
