CI: Lesson - The Truth Behind Caedes Foedissima

The Truth Behind Caedes Foedissima

Veritas Rerum means "the truth of the matter".  The story we've been reading in this course, Caedes Foedissima, was a work of fiction! Many of the characters were real (Marcellus, Augustus, Livia, Selene, Alexander, Juba, Maecenas, Agrippa, Anna), and yet, they were given a story that was not their own. Those characters who were invented (Pseudolus in particular) were there to give the story a personal depth, and to provide a context for the plot. In this first lesson, we will discuss the ways in which these characters were used to create this fiction and to clear up the historical record.  

The Story

In the story you read for this class, Caedes Foedissima, the central plot focused on the death of Marcellus, the son of Octavia and nephew of Emperor Augustus. Our story was told from the perspective that Marcellus was murdered, and the plot surrounding his death involved several interesting figures. As many real, historical characters as possible were used in the telling of the story, but to create a dynamic story, several characters were invented, including the lead character, Pseudolus. Below you will find a graphic: click on a name from the story to find out the real story behind that character - was Marcellus even murdered?

Review the Real Characters of Caedes Foedissima

Real Characters Handout Links to an external site.

Complete this document to help you review the story.

Use the practice activity to assist in completing the handout.