Caligula's Illness

[Tacitus]

For the first six months of his reign, Caligula's reign was peaceful and actually enlightened.  He then fell seriously ill and in the next month, had turned into the tyrant we all know today.

Has anyone ever determined what he may have come down with?

[Bill W4]

I don't think so, many theories, none proven.  I think that as a child he was highly stressed and something finally pushed him over the line.  Epilepsy, some other illness, who knows. 

[PMah]

You did, Tacitus, but the books have been lost. Try to remember!!!!!

I recommend Anthony Barrett, Caligula,  the Corruption of Power.  Illness as a cause of behavior versus illness exposing political vulnerability leading to behavior is explored therein.