Episode #50 - Caracalla and Geta: The Roman Cain & Abel

In this episode of the History in Motion Podcast, we delve into the gripping tale of Caracalla and Geta, the Roman brothers whose deadly rivalry shook an empire. As sons of Emperor Septimius Severus and the influential Empress Julia Domna, they were destined to rule together and uphold their family's legacy. However, sibling jealousy and a fierce struggle for power turned them into bitter enemies. Discover how their rivalry escalated after their father's death, leading to a divided imperial court and whispers of treachery. We'll explore the dramatic events that culminated in Caracalla's ruthless assassination of Geta in their mother's chambers—a shocking act of fratricide that stunned Rome. In the aftermath, Caracalla's attempt to erase his brother's memory through damnatio memoriae sparked fear and turmoil across the empire. Join us as we unravel the psychological complexities behind their feud, the profound impact on Julia Domna, and the resulting instability within the Roman Empire. We'll examine how personal vendettas and the quest for absolute power can alter the course of history. This episode offers a compelling look into a family divided, the high stakes of imperial politics, and the enduring consequences of ambition and betrayal.

Om Podcasten

The History In Motion Podcast was created to explore history through the eyes of decision making. Looking at decisions that were made at critical junctions of human history and the leaders who made them. Our approach is to make history more engaging by putting ourselves in the shoes of politicians, governments, military leaders - to understand who they were and the world they lived in and how it all came together in the decisions they made.