Lucius Verus: Rome’s Forgotten Emperor

In the annals of Roman history, certain names echo with legendary resonance: Caesar, Augustus, Nero. Yet, there are emperors whose legacies, though significant, shimmer less vividly in the collective memory. Among these, Lucius Verus (130–169 AD) stands as a compelling figure, whose reign alongside Marcus Aurelius marked a period of both prosperity and profound challenges for the Roman Empire.

Marble bust of Lucius Verus. Source: Fondazione Torlonia

The Path to Power

Lucius Verus’ path to the imperial throne was both unique and a reflection of the complex adoption practices among Roman elites. Born Lucius Ceionius Commodus, his rise to prominence came through a series of strategic adoptions orchestrated by Hadrian to ensure a smooth succession. Hadrian first adopted Antoninus Pius on the condition that Antoninus would subsequently adopt both Marcus Aurelius and Lucius Ceionius Commodus (the future Lucius Verus). This series of adoptions was aimed at securing a stable and capable line of succession.

Upon Hadrian’s death, Antoninus Pius became emperor, and Lucius Verus, alongside Marcus Aurelius, was groomed for future leadership. The true moment of Lucius Verus’ accession began when Antoninus Pius died in 161 AD. In a historic move, Marcus Aurelius, immediately upon becoming emperor, insisted on sharing power with Lucius Verus, thereby elevating him to the status of co-emperor. This decision was groundbreaking, marking the first time in Roman history that the empire was officially ruled by two emperors simultaneously. The co-emperorship was a testament to their close relationship and Marcus Aurelius’ desire for a balanced and shared rule.

Busts of the co-emperors Marcus Aurelius (L) & Lucius Verus (R) at the British Museum

Military Endeavors

Lucius Verus’ reign was significantly shaped by his military campaigns, particularly in the East. The Parthian War (161–166 AD) stands out as the most notable. Initially, Verus was criticized for his seemingly luxurious lifestyle in Antioch, away from the front lines. However, under his nominal command, Roman forces, led by capable generals such as Avidius Cassius, achieved significant victories, including the capture of the Parthian capital, Ctesiphon, in 165 AD. These successes expanded Roman influence in the East and brought substantial booty back to Rome, but they also inadvertently introduced a devastating plague that would afflict the empire for years.

The campaigns of Marcus Aurelius & Lucius Verus

Coinage and Public Image

The coinage of Lucius Verus, like that of many Roman emperors, served as a vital tool for propaganda and the projection of imperial authority. His coins frequently depicted themes of victory and divine favor, reinforcing his and Marcus Aurelius’ status as protectors and benefactors of the empire. The imagery on these coins, ranging from representations of conquered territories to symbols of military success, played a crucial role in shaping public perception of his reign.

Silver Denarius of Lucius Verus depicting a bound Parthian captive on the reverse, bearing the military titles Armenicus & Parthicus Maximus on the obverse. Source CNG Coins

Architectural Contributions and Public Works

Although Lucius Verus’ rule is less noted for monumental architecture than that of his co-emperor Marcus Aurelius, his contributions to Rome’s urban landscape were not insignificant. He and Marcus Aurelius jointly dedicated the Temple of Antoninus and Faustina, transforming a personal monument into a public space of worship. Additionally, the triumphal arches and other structures erected in their honor celebrated their military victories and served as enduring symbols of their joint rule.

The surviving colonnade of the temple of Divine Antoninus & Divine Faustina in Rome

Personal Life and Legacy

Verus’ personal life, marked by his marriage to Marcus Aurelius’ daughter Lucilla, was integral to the political and familial alliances that underpinned the stability of their co-emperorship. His untimely death in 169 AD, possibly due to the plague that followed the Parthian campaign, brought an end to this unique period of dual rule. In the aftermath, Marcus Aurelius continued to govern alone, facing further military and social challenges without the partnership that had characterized their approach to leadership.

Relief from the “Parthian Monument” at Ephesus showing the apotheosis of Lucius Verus, his chariot reins held by the goddess of Victory, 169 CE, via KunstHistorisches Museum, Wien

Lucius Verus’ reign, though overshadowed by that of his more philosophically inclined co-emperor, was a pivotal period in the history of the Roman Empire. His military successes bolstered Rome’s territorial and strategic standing, while his coinage and public works projects contributed to the civic and cultural life of the empire. Despite the brevity of his rule and the challenges that marred it, Verus’ legacy is a testament to the complexities and contradictions of imperial leadership in ancient Rome.

Conclusion

Lucius Verus, often overlooked in the shadow of Marcus Aurelius, was a figure of considerable importance in the Roman imperial pantheon. His unique position as co-emperor, his military accomplishments, and his role in the cultural and economic life of the empire offer valuable insights into the dynamics of Roman imperial rule and the challenges it faced. As we reflect on his legacy, we are reminded of the myriad ways in which power, politics, and personal ambition intersect in the annals of history, shaping the destinies of empires and their rulers.

Sources

• Birley, Anthony. “Marcus Aurelius: A Biography.” Routledge
• Millar, Fergus. “The Roman Near East, 31 BC-AD 337.” Harvard University Press
• Goodman, Martin. “The Roman World 44 BC–AD 180.” Routledge
• Rowe, Greg. “Princes and Political Cultures: The New Tiberian Senatorial Decrees.” University of Michigan Press
• Campbell, Brian. “The Roman Army, 31 BC-AD 337: A Sourcebook.” Routledge