Sextus Tarquinius
Early Life
Sextus Tarquinius was the son of Lucius Tarquinius, the seventh and last king of Rome, and his queen, Tullia. The historical accounts of Sextus' life are deeply intertwined with the history of the Roman monarchy, and particularly with the reign of his father.
Reign of Lucius Tarquinius Superbus
Lucius Tarquinius Superbus was known for his tyrannical rule. He ascended to the throne after the murder of his predecessor and brother-in-law, Servius, a crime in which both Lucius and his wife were implicated. His reign was marked by the use of violence and fear to maintain control over Rome, and he was known for his disregard for Roman customs and traditions.
During this time, Sextus Tarquinius was growing up in the royal household, and it is likely that he was heavily influenced by his father's methods of ruling. The historical accounts suggest that Sextus was not only aware of his father's tyrannical rule, but also actively participated in it.
The Rape of Lucretia
One of the most infamous events associated with Sextus Tarquinius is the rape of Lucretia, a noblewoman of Rome. According to the historical accounts, Sextus was overcome with lust for Lucretia after seeing her during a visit to her husband's house. He later returned to the house and raped her, threatening to kill her and disgrace her body if she did not submit to him.
Following the rape, Lucretia revealed what had happened to her father and husband, and then killed herself out of shame. This event is said to have sparked a rebellion against the Tarquin family and led to the overthrow of the Roman monarchy.
Overthrow of the Monarchy
The rape of Lucretia and her subsequent suicide incited a public outcry in Rome. Lucretia's husband, Collatinus, and her father, Lucretius, along with Brutus, led a rebellion against the Tarquin family. The rebels rallied the support of the Roman people, who were already discontented with the tyrannical rule of Lucius Tarquinius Superbus.
The rebellion resulted in the expulsion of the Tarquin family from Rome, marking the end of the Roman monarchy and the beginning of the Republic. This event, known as the overthrow of the Roman monarchy, is a significant turning point in Roman history.
Later Life and Death
Following the overthrow of the monarchy, Sextus Tarquinius fled Rome. The historical accounts of his later life and death are somewhat unclear and contradictory. According to some sources, he was killed by the people of Gabii, a town that he had previously deceived and betrayed on behalf of his father. Other sources suggest that he lived out the rest of his life in exile.
Legacy
Sextus Tarquinius is a controversial figure in Roman history. His actions, particularly the rape of Lucretia, are often cited as the catalyst for the overthrow of the Roman monarchy and the establishment of the Republic. Despite his negative reputation, the story of Sextus Tarquinius has been the subject of numerous works of literature and art, reflecting the enduring impact of his actions on Roman history and culture.