Hadrian, who ruled from 117 to 138, was one of the most consequential but controversial Roman emperors. He was a Roman who loved Greece but is best remembered in Italy, where he built the Pantheon in Rome, and Britain, where he constructed his eponymous wall. He is remembered in Judea as well, where he incited a rebellion that devastated the country and bled the Roman armies dry before they suppressed it.

Hadrian was a man’s man who owed his success to the women who loved him, but he gave his heart to an adolescent boy. To one ancient writer Hadrian was austere and genial, deceitful and straightforward, cruel and merciful, and always changeable. Who was Hadrian and why does he still matter? Classicist and historian Barry Strauss shares the story of this forceful ruler.

General Information

• View Common FAQs and Policies about our Online Programs on Zoom.