Unfortunately, there is relatively little primary source information on Caligula. As such, this biography is brief. Nonetheless, I found it informative and entertaining.

The author provides helpful background and context for a better understanding of Caligula's early life and family strife, as well as his complex familial connections which led to his rise to power. I particularly enjoyed the author's straightforward evaluation of the evidence. While many modern historians craft unnecessarily complex explanations/justifications for Caligula's actions, this author takes the "Occam's Razor" approach and generally concludes that Caligula was simply a deranged megalomaniac. Whether or not you agree with his conclusion in that regard, the book as an interesting and informative read. Highly recommended. ( )

A refreshing biography of Caligula. The author argues for the veracity of the ancient authors concerning the behaviour and actions of Caligula, seeking answers in his upbringing. Well argued, though perhaps too accepting in places of Tacitus, Suetonius, et al. He seeks to demolish the biographies of Balsdon and Barrett who endeavour to find logical reasons for Caligula's actions in misreadings of Latin and bias of the ancient authors. Ferrill's argument is, simply, that the man was unstable, and eventually, insane. Well written and easy to read, suitable for anyone interested in the period, though he does assume a basic knowledge of the history of the times.