Messalina Lecture Notes

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to the life and actions of Messalina, her relationship with Claudius, and the political implications of her affairs.

Messalina

Roman empress, wife of Claudius, known for her infidelity and political intrigue.

Claudius

Roman Emperor from 41 AD, married Messalina; significant age difference between him and her.

iuventutis

Refers to youth; used to describe Silius implying he was younger than typical consuls.

exturbaret

To force someone out; Tacitus describes Messalina's pressure on Junia Silana regarding Silius.

liberoque adultero

Describes Silius as free to have an affair with Messalina after divorcing his wife.

exitium

Destruction or death; suggests Silius fears the consequences of rejecting Messalina.

magna praemia

Latin for 'great rewards', referring to the potential benefits for Silius from his affair.

neglegere et frui

Latin contrasting phrases meaning to ignore vs enjoy, highlighting Silius's choices.

egredienti adhaeret

Latin phrase suggesting Messalina's infatuation, clinging to Silius in public.

opes honoresque

Wealth and honors, refers to the wealth transferred to Silius, raising ethical concerns.

propter facilitatem adulteriorum

Indicates Messalina's ease with committing adultery, desiring more excitement.

insidiis incautus

Describes Silius as slow to suspect intrigue, hinting at possible plots.

sine quaestione

Latin for 'without question', referring to the urgency to act against Messalina.

periculum

Danger, specifically the imminent threat Claudius poses to Messalina and Silius.

tace enim … flagitantium

Indicates demand for punishment from the people, reflecting urgency and public pressure.

tribunal

Platform for addressing troops, where Silius faces trial; highlights Roman military practices.

nihil honestum

Latin for 'nothing honorable', suggests Messalina's moral degradation due to her actions.

ferrum accepit

Means she was given a sword; foreshadows her final act of desperation.

fortuna suam intellexit

Means she understood her fate; signifies the moment of clarity before her demise.