Roman Emperors and their Illnesses – Dr Nick Summerton, Roman specialist and guide.

Medical history has been particularly unkind to some historical figures. The, so-called, ‘mad emperors’ Caligula, Tiberius and Nero cannot question their various psychiatric diagnoses or request a second opinion. Neither can Maximinus Thrax demand further testing to refute or confirm the suggestion that he suffered from a type of hormonal disorder.

Diagnosing the illnesses of Roman emperors might not be viewed as an appropriate line of enquiry given the enormous gulf that separates ancient and modern medicine. However, there are certainly some major challenges in using present medical knowledge to identify past diseases, there are potential opportunities too in augmenting – or even correcting the historical record.

By carefully and cautiously applying modern medical insights to ancient sources, this talk will challenge myths, correct assumptions, and offer a more humane understanding of the men behind the imperial image.

Nick Summerton is a retired doctor with longstanding interests in Roman numismatics and Greco – Roman Medicine and is also a FORA Trustee. He has written numerous books including ‘Greco- Roman Medicine and What It Can Teach Us Today’ and ‘Roman Emperors and Their Illnesses.’ Nick gave an excellent talk on ‘Medicine and Health care in Roman Britain’ in 2021 and also led a Roman Medicine Day in conjunction with the Aldborough Roman Garden team in August 2025.

Talks are free to Friends of Roman Aldborough members.

Visitors £7.50