CHAPTER XXIV

THE EMPIRE AT ITS HEIGHT. The twelve Caesars--The emperor--Apotheosis-- Senate and people--The praetorians--Freedmen of the emperors-- Despotism and disorder.

THE CENTURY OF THE ANTONINES. Marcus Aurelius--Conquests of the Antonines.

IMPERIAL INSTITUTIONS. Extent of the empire in the second century-- Permanent army--Deputies and agents of the emperor--Municipal life--Imperial regime.

SOCIAL LIFE UNDER THE EMPIRE. The continued decadence at Rome--The shows--Theatre--Circus--Amphitheatre--Gladiators--The Roman peace--Fusion of the peoples--Superstitions.