Roman historian whose De viris illustribus (Concerning illustrious men) played a pivotal role in forming later generations' views of classical Rome.
The work, which examines rulers from Julius Caesar (102-44 B.C.) through Domitian (r. A.D. 81-96), is full of compelling detail on the corruption and intrigue that characterized life at the top of Roman society. Suetonius, who wrote a number of other works—including, apparently, an encyclopedia—went to great pains to portray such specialized topics as games and pastimes, famous courtesans, and the growth of Rome's civil service.
