Abstract
This paper explores Philo’s Legatio ad Gaium, which describes the embassy of Jewish Alexandrians to Caligula in A. D. 40. In the Legatio, Philo engages critically with the idea of the Roman emperorship in his descriptions of Augustus, Tiberius and Caligula. This paper analyses Philo’s complex critique of Roman rule, which includes a polemical analysis of Gaius’ conduct, and shows critical engagement with imperial ideology. Through his erudite perspective, Philo provides us with an early interpretation of the emperorship, which is informed by his background as a Jewish philosopher and statesman, an interest in exemplarity and a focus on the future.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
