Did Caesar's Wife Really Have a Warning Dream?

The famous play 'Julius Caesar' by William Shakespeare has made Calpurnia, the wife of Julius Caesar, and her prophetic dream a part of history. However, the historical accuracy of her supposed dream is a matter of debate among scholars.

Historical Accounts and Debates

Plutarch, a biographer known for his works on the Roman and Greek leaders, wrote that Calpurnia had a dream warning her husband about his impending assassination. However, this claim is often disputed. Plutarch, who wrote long after the events, aims to tell a good story rather than provide historical accuracy. His account of Calpurnia's dream can be seen as part of the literary tradition, rather than a verified historical record.

Recent Interpretations and Theories

Recent interpretations, such as those presented by an academic discussing the addressees of Horace's Ars Poetica, propose that the epicurean influence in Horace's work likely had an impact on the character of Calpurnia. This interpretation suggests that Calpurnia was a deeply educated Epicurean, much like her father, Calpurnius Piso Caesoninus, who was consul in 58 BCE. Piso, who was an Epicurean philosopher and the patron of Philodemus of Gadara, also saw the value in religious practices as a means of understanding the peace of the cosmos.

Evidence from Inscriptions and Biography

One Latin inscription, a funerary epigram, provides additional evidence that Calpurnia maintained the Epicurean beliefs instilled in her by her father. The inscription emphasizes the care and affection that Calpurnia received from her own "patron," and the reverence she held for her husband, Caesar. Given the legal constraints and the historical context, it can be argued that Calpurnia was not only an Epicurean but also a strong and independent individual who managed to greatly impact her husband's political and social life.

Historical Context and Professional Insights

As an Epicurean, Calpurnia was well-versed in the philosophy that emphasized the pursuit of pleasure and the avoidance of pain. This interpretation aligns with her actions and decisions throughout her life, including her decision to support Julius Caesar, who himself was a political and military leader with a clear understanding of the Roman Empire.

The Dream and Its Impact

According to the narrative of Plutarch, Calpurnia had a dream warning her husband about his assassination. This dream, however, can be seen as a strategic move by Calpurnia to persuade Caesar to cancel the parliamentary session that would nominally have been attended by both of their families. Plutarch suggests that Calpurnia, who had avoided superstition her entire life, had a change of heart and became more inclined towards religious and superstitious practices.

Conclusion

While the exact details of Calpurnia's dream and its impact are debated, recent interpretations and historical evidence provide a more nuanced understanding of the character's role in the political and philosophical disputes of her time. Whether or not Calpurnia truly had a prophetic dream, her beliefs and actions were likely informed by a deep understanding of Epicurean philosophy and her personal relationship with her husband, Julius Caesar.

The story of Calpurnia serves as a fascinating exploration of the intersections between personal beliefs, political power, and historical events. Her role in Caesar's life and the events leading up to his assassination continue to captivate historians and scholars, offering insights into the complex dynamics of Roman society and the personal relationships that shaped its political landscape.