I, Claudius Chapter Summary & Analysis - Chapter 16 Summary

Chapter 16 Summary

The chapter is not specifically dated but obviously takes place immediately after the previous chapter, probably in 14 AD. Germanicus uses his now-loyal regiments and a large amount of political maneuvering to quell the rioting of nearby regiments and, eventually, to bring the entire front under order. Germanicus' wife, Agrippina, and children typically accompany him on campaign, largely to vacate the politically poisonous atmosphere of Rome. Germanicus now decides the frontier is too chaotic and dangerous for them, and he sends them away. His regiment has adopted his young son Caligula as their mascot, however, and they implore him to recall the boy. After they swear their personal loyalty to Germanicus, he recalls their mascot Caligula. Throughout the entire episode, Germanicus acts with Tiberius' best interest at heart. Tiberius nevertheless suspects Germanicus of political intrigue and feels threatened by his great popular appeal. Also during this time, Claudius requests of...
(read more)