When was Gaius Suetonius Tranquillus born?
Gaius Suetonius Tranquillus likely entered the world around AD 69. Scholars deduce this date from his own description of himself as a young man twenty years after Nero's death.
Questions about Suetonius
Short answers, pulled from the story.
Where was Roman historian Suetonius born and what is that place called today?
Most experts place the origins of Suetonius in Hippo Regius, known today as Annaba. This small town sat within Numidia on the north African coast where modern-day Algeria occupies that same territory now.
How did Pliny the Younger help Suetonius gain imperial positions under Trajan?
Pliny assisted Suetonius in acquiring a small property and interceded with Emperor Trajan on behalf of his friend. Trajan granted immunities usually reserved for fathers of three children to Suetonius who remained childless during his marriage.
Why did Emperor Hadrian dismiss Suetonius from his role as personal secretary?
Controversial accounts from the Historia Augusta suggest Hadrian dismissed Suetonius due to an affair with Empress Vibia Sabina. No other contemporary source confirms this specific scandal but his dismissal marked the conclusion of his documented administrative life.
What structural formula did Suetonius use to write De Vita Caesarum about twelve Roman rulers?
Suetonius described physical appearance before listing omens and family history appeared next in the narrative order. Direct quotes from historical figures filled out the accounts while a final section detailed their political history.