Nerva: Rome’s Reluctant Emperor

Nerva is remembered as the first of Rome’s Five Good Emperors. This documentary focuses on his reign and his position in the history of imperial succession, examining the ruler behind that enduring designation.

Historical background

Nerva became Roman emperor after Domitian’s assassination and ruled for a short period before Trajan’s succession. His reign is often presented as the beginning of the era of the Five Good Emperors. That retrospective label can hide the pressures surrounding imperial succession, military loyalty, and relations with the Senate. His adoption of Trajan is especially important to the way later accounts interpret the transfer of imperial power.

Related history

• Hannibal: Rome’s Formidable Foe
• Boudicca’s Revolt Against Roman Rule