Hadrian, the Roman Emperor, faces his approaching death while reflecting on his life in a letter to his adopted grandson and successor, Marcus Aurelius. He recounts his journey from a privileged upbringing in Spain to becoming a ruler, sharing insights meant to guide his heir with wisdom gained from a life of power and responsibility. His narrative is a tapestry of political maneuvering, personal relationships, and philosophical musings that shaped the empire and his own character.

Early Life and Education

Born into a wealthy family with a history of aristocratic administration, Hadrian's early years were marked by the death of his father, which led him to Rome at the age of twelve. There, he pursued an education that covered a wide range of disciplines such as science, mathematics, art, literature, and Greek culture, while also beginning his military training. This foundational period prepared him for a series of judicial roles that honed his understanding of human behavior, disciplined listening, and time management.

Military Career and Rise to Power

Hadrian's military career began as a junior officer in Central Europe, a time filled with both challenges and growth. He received news of Emperor Nerva's death and the ascension of his cousin Trajan to the throne during this period. Despite their familial ties and Hadrian’s evident talents, the relationship between the new emperor and Hadrian was fraught with tension over both personal and public matters. Trajan’s ambition to expand Roman territories saw Hadrian serving in numerous campaigns across Europe, where his courage earned him acclaim and the symbolic gift of a ring from the emperor, signifying imperial favor.

Influence and Jealousy

Hadrian’s role in the emperor’s inner circle grew, aided by Trajan’s wife, Plotina, who shared Hadrian's perspectives. His expanded duties included administrative tasks and crafting speeches for the emperor, further solidifying his position. However, his successes and his marriage to Trajan’s grandniece, Sabina, sparked jealousy in Trajan, who began to resent Hadrian's rising influence.

Confronting Challenges and Diplomacy

Amidst renewed conflicts across the empire, Hadrian was dispatched to various battlefronts to restore military discipline. His strategic prowess led to significant victories, but these campaigns also took a toll on his spirit and aged him prematurely. With Plotina’s support, Hadrian's career continued to advance, eventually becoming consul and then governor and military legate in Syria. When Trajan planned further conquests in Asia, Hadrian wisely recommended forging advantageous trade agreements along the Silk Road, recognizing the formidable challenge posed by the region.

Ascension to Emperor

Despite Trajan's reluctance, Plotina tirelessly championed Hadrian’s candidacy as successor, and just before Trajan’s death, Hadrian was named heir in his will. In 117 CE, at forty years old, Hadrian ascended as emperor. He was more intent on improving the human condition than indulging in imperial power, striving for peace abroad and fostering legislative harmony at home. His reforms spanned social innovations and individual freedoms, aimed at enhancing the well-being of the empire’s citizens. To secure Roman peace, he encouraged commerce and nurtured the arts, as well as initiating the construction of cities around the Mediterranean. His efforts also extended to civilizing Britain and the German plains.

Antinous and Personal Loss

On his travels, Hadrian met and fell deeply in love with Antinous, a strikingly handsome Greek youth. Their relationship blossomed into a profound companionship, marked by an unparalleled closeness. During this period of personal happiness, Antinous, driven by his affection for Hadrian, sacrificed himself so that his remaining years might extend Hadrian’s life. Overcome with grief and guilt, Hadrian returned to Italy, where he turned his focus to literary and scientific projects, all while reforming laws to...