How do Caligula and Nero represent the problen of hereditary succession?

Answer 1

Caligula and Nero exemplify the issues of hereditary succession in the Roman Empire by highlighting the dangers of power passing to individuals lacking the necessary virtues and capabilities. Both emperors were descendants of prominent families but demonstrated erratic behavior and poor leadership, leading to political instability and public discontent. Their reigns illustrated how familial lineage did not guarantee effective governance, ultimately questioning the efficacy of hereditary rule in ensuring competent leadership. The chaos that ensued during their reigns underscored the need for more merit-based criteria in selecting rulers.