CHAPTER XLI.

PERIOD OF MILITARY DESPOTISM.--DECLINE OF THE EMPIRE.

COMMODUS (180-192).


On the death of Aurelius, his son, Commodus, hastened to Rome, and was
received by both the Senate and army without opposition. His character
was the opposite of that of his good father. In ferocity and
vindictiveness he was almost unequalled, even among the Emperors of
unhappy Rome. By means of informers, who were well paid, he rid
himself of the best members of the Senate. His government became so
corrupt, he himself so notorious in crime, that he was unendurable.
His proudest boasts were of his triumphs in the amphitheatre, and of
his ability to kill a hundred lions with as many arrows. After a reign
of twelve years his servants rid the Empire of his presence.


PERTINAX (192-193).

PERTINAX, the Praefect of the city, an old and experienced Senator,
followed Commodus. His reign of three months was well meant, but as it
was not supported by the military it was of no effect. His attempted
reforms were stopped by his murder.