Chapter 4, Gaius (Caligula) Summary and Analysis

Gaius Caesar is born on August 31, AD 12, and is one of Tiberius' grandsons. He is given the surname Caligula as a joke because he grows up among the army troops and wears a miniature private soldier uniform. He inherits a bit of his grandfather's brutality. At a young age he already loves to watch tortures and executions and will go out into town disguised to engage in "gluttonous and adulterous" actions.

Gaius is welcomed as Emperor very quickly and happily after Tiberius' death. He is very popular and strives to keep his popularity high. Gaius is very devoted to the memory of his brother and mother and after giving a very heartfelt speech at Tiberius' funeral, goes to fetch his family members' remains. He is very devoted to his sisters and includes them in daily addresses. He...