Did Commodus Have a Wife and Son? An In-Depth Look

Commodus the Chameleon of Bacchus and Rome

Commodus, born Marcus Aurelius Commodus, was a Roman Emperor who reigned from 180 to 192 AD. He is often portrayed as a megalomaniac, a charioteer, and a quasi-god, especially in popular culture and literature. While his portrayal in fiction often includes a variety of wives and potential heirs, historians have more concrete information about his personal life. This article will delve into the truth of whether Commodus had a wife and son, separating historical facts from legendary embellishments.

Commodus and His Wives

Bruttia Cispinea: A Political Marriage

The first topic of discussion is Commodus's wife, Bruttia Cispinea. She is often referred to in historical records as his wife, but the circumstances surrounding their relationship are more complex than a simple marital bond. Cispinea was born to a freedman financier and was politically connected, making her a suitable bride for the young emperor. While she was his wife, the nature of their relationship was more of a political alliance than that of a traditional marriage in the Roman sense.

Contrary to popular belief, there is no evidence of a personal affection between Commodus and Cispinea. Records indicate that she married the emperor while he was still a young man and fatherless, and her role in his life was more one of political alliance than of a spouse. Whether they maintained a romantic or familial relationship is not precisely documented, but it is unlikely given their political and social contexts.

Commodus and His Children

No Son: The Mystery of Commodus's Heir

Commodus, as with many of his successors, faced the challenge of ensuring the continuity of his rule. At least one of his portrait images indicates he had no legitimate heir, which was a significant concern for emperors in Roman times. Unlike his father, Marcus Aurelius, who had trained his son Commodus to take the throne, Commodus did not produce a direct heir during his reign.

There were whispers of possible heirs, often sown by political enemies, but historical records are silent on this. The accounts often diverge, with some claiming he had illegitimate children with prominent figures of the time, and others suggesting he adopted a successor. However, none of these claims have been substantiated by concrete historical evidence. The lack of a clear heir is one of the key reasons behind the chaotic succession that followed his death.

The Historical Context of Roman Emporers

Legacy and Succession

The absence of a wife and son in Commodus's life underscores the complex dynamics of Roman imperial succession. The Roman Empire, at that time, was known for its focus on political alliances and strategic marriages rather than emotional attachments. The role of empress was often purely symbolic, as in Commodus's case with Bruttia Cispinea.

The political atmosphere of the time, characterized by power struggles and betrayals, made the establishment of a clear heir a paramount concern. Commodus, known for his eccentricities and the grief he felt over his father's death, may have neglected to produce a legitimate heir. This absence led to instability following his rule, as his successor, Pertinax, was unable to maintain control against the legions, leading to the year of four emperors.

Conclusion

Untangling the Myths

In conclusion, based on historical records, Commodus did have a wife, Bruttia Cispinea, but their relationship was more a political arrangement than one driven by personal affection. As for his son, there is no concrete evidence to support the suggestion that he had one. The human stories around a great historical figure can sometimes obscure the facts, but by examining the primary sources, we can piece together a more accurate picture of Commodus's life and reign.