CALIGULA The Roman Emperor Caligula, known for his extravagant and often erratic behavior, ruled during a turbulent period of the empire. He was infamous for his ambitious schemes, his disregard for traditional Roman customs, and his shocking acts of cruelty. Despite his short reign, marked by both brilliant moments and terrifying excesses, Caligula left a lasting impact on Roman history. His actions fueled political instability and contributed to the eventual decline of the empire, solidifying his reputation as one of Rome’s most controversial and unsettling figures.

Zbigniew Herbert’s latest collection of poetry, “The Emperor’s Shadow,” presents a stark and unsettling exploration of power, morality, and the enduring allure of tyranny. The […]