ABSTRACT

The early part of Agrippa II’s life is charted. This account begins with a brief sketch of the life of his father, Agrippa I, who succeeded by natural talent and luck to be appointed client king of Judaea. He made good use of his close friendship with both Caius (Caligula) and Claudius and was instrumental in Claudius becoming emperor following the demise of Caligula. The career of Agrippa I is used to compare and contrast the personalities and abilities of father and son in relation to their respective reigns. As was the custom for client monarchies, Agrippa II was brought up and educated in Rome alongside members of the imperial family and the sons of other client kings, imbibing Graeco-Roman culture, which profoundly coloured his outlook. When Agrippa I died suddenly in 44 CE, his son was denied succession to his kingdom on the grounds of his youth and inexperience and Agrippa II had to wait a further five years before he was given a territory to rule.