ABSTRACT
Throughout the principate of Tiberius, an atmosphere of suspicion and conflict blighted relations between the princeps and his nephew, Germanicus, and his family. The long-term significance of this lay in the fact that public interpretation of the relationship led to deep suspicion of Tiberius’ intentions and consequently increased unpopularity for the princeps. Besides this, the disunity within Tiberius’ family contributed greatly to the isolation of the princeps and thus provided an opportunity for Sejanus, the prefect of the praetorian guard, to insinuate himself into Tiberius’ favour-with disastrous results (see Chapter 6).
