The Ancients: Emperor Macrinus - Usurper of Rome
Host: Tristan Hughes
Guests: Dr. Alex Imry, Matilda Brown
Release Date: November 17, 2024

Introduction

In the episode titled "Emperor Macrinus: Usurper of Rome," Tristan Hughes delves into the lesser-known yet fascinating story of Emperor Macrinus, a pivotal figure portrayed by Denzel Washington in the epic film "Gladiator 2." This episode continues the exploration of the Roman Empire's tumultuous third century, following the reign and downfall of Caracalla and the rise of Macrinus. Hughes is joined by Dr. Alex Imry, a historian from Edinburgh University, and Matilda Brown, a final-year PhD candidate specializing in the Severan dynasty.

Background of the Guests

• Dr. Alex Imry is renowned for his expertise on Roman emperors, particularly Caracalla and Geta. In the previous episode, he provided deep insights into the tumultuous relationship between the brothers and the brutal murder of Geta.

• Matilda Brown focuses on the post-Macrinus era, examining the influential Severan Empresses who played crucial roles in the political landscape that followed Macrinus's reign.

Macrinus: A Brief Overview

Tristan Hughes sets the stage by highlighting Macrinus as a central figure in "Gladiator 2." Unlike the more infamous emperors, Macrinus remains relatively obscure outside academic circles. Both guests express their surprise and intrigue about his depiction in Hollywood.

Dr. Alex Imry remarks at [04:38]:
"He certainly feels like one of the less well-known Roman emperors, particularly outside of academia."

Rise to Power

Macrinus's ascent to power is marked by his background as an equestrian and his role as a Praetorian Prefect under Caracalla. Unlike the senatorial class, Macrinus belonged to the equestrian order, the second-highest social class in Rome, which played a significant role in his rise.

At [16:49], Dr. Alex Imry explains:
"We know that he was born in the Roman province of Mauritania and was trained as a lawyer. His career saw a steady rise, ultimately leading him to become Praetorian Prefect."

The stability of the Roman Empire was fragile during Caracalla's reign, especially with his military campaigns against Parthia proving largely inconclusive. Frustration within the army, coupled with a diminished support base in Rome, set the stage for Macrinus's takeover.

Reign and Policies

One of Caracalla's most notable achievements was the Constitutio Antoniniana, granting Roman citizenship to nearly all free inhabitants of the empire. Despite his reputation as a tyrant, this move was a significant step in unifying the diverse populations under Roman rule.

At [09:18], Dr. Alex Imry emphasizes:
"It's a remarkable move introduced by a bloodthirsty tyrant, aiming to secure loyalty after the murder of Geta."

Macrinus, ascending from the equestrian order, faced the challenge of legitimizing his rule. To bridge the gap between his background and the expectations of the senatorial class, he adopted the name Severus, aligning himself with the Severan dynasty.

Matilda Brown adds at [20:44]:
"Macrinus is portrayed in sources as a legal nerd, which starkly contrasts his Hollywood depiction as a formidable leader."

The Downfall of Macrinus

Macrinus's reign was short-lived due to several strategic missteps and the rising influence of the Severan family matriarchs. The true turning point came with the rise of Julia Maesa and her grandsons, Elagabalus and Severus Alexander.

At [25:37], Matilda Brown narrates:
"Julia Maesa, leveraging her family's influence and the loyalty of the 3rd Gallic Legion, orchestrates a coup to place her grandson Elagabalus on the throne."

The decisive battle near Antioch showcased the resilience of the Severan supporters. The presence of Julia Maesa and Julia Soemias on the battlefield rallied the troops, leading to Macrinus's defeat.

Dr. Alex Imry reflects at [48:23]:
"Macrinus's legacy is almost non-existent, condemned by the new Severan regime and overshadowed by the more influential figures who followed."

Legacy and Conclusion

Despite his brief rule, Macrinus represents a critical juncture in Roman history. His attempt to steer the empire away from the chaotic third century crisis was overshadowed by stronger familial and military forces loyal to the Severan lineage. The episode concludes with reflections on Macrinus's intentions and the possible ramifications had his reign continued.

Matilda Brown concludes at [55:50]:
"Macrinus deserved more attention because if he had succeeded, we might have avoided the third-century crisis."

Dr. Alex Imry adds:
"He is completely overwhelmed by the circumstances he inherits, underestimating the power of the Severan women and the existing military loyalty."

Tristan Hughes wraps up the episode by acknowledging Macrinus's unique position in history and his portrayal in contemporary media, highlighting the enduring fascination with his story.

Key Quotes

• Tristan Hughes [06:01]:
  "Caracalla's brutal murdering of Geta and the removal of Geta's image across the Empire... he never returns home from military campaigns."

• Dr. Alex Imry [09:18]:
  "The Constitutio Antoniniana is a watershed moment for how citizenship is perceived."

• Matilda Brown [14:50]:
  "Sometimes the actual history of certain events is more interesting than fictional stories."

• Dr. Alex Imry [27:26]:
  "Macrinus is the first man of equestrian status to achieve the purple. This is a real watershed moment for who gets to be in charge of the Roman empire."

• Matilda Brown [44:43]:
  "No, we have his father's gravestone... provincial coinage struck in the east shows Elagabalus on one side."

Conclusion

"Emperor Macrinus: Usurper of Rome" offers a comprehensive exploration of a pivotal yet overlooked emperor whose brief reign marked significant shifts in Roman political and social structures. Through engaging discussions and expert insights, Tristan Hughes, alongside Dr. Alex Imry and Matilda Brown, sheds light on Macrinus's rise, policies, downfall, and enduring legacy, providing listeners with a nuanced understanding of this complex historical figure.