Scheming in the Shadow of Tyrants: The ‘Littlefinger’ Type in Roman Historiography

Abstract

The paper analyses how typical figures of ‘villains’ are described in ancient historiography, with reference to those characters whose attitude may be compared to that of Littlefinger in George R. R. Martin’s saga: characters such as Gaius Scribonius Curio, Aelius Sejanus, or members of Claudius’ and Galba’s entourage. Collateral issues are also discussed: on the one hand, the narrative technique of staging a confrontation between ‘bad’ and ‘good’ counsellors; on the other hand, the positive evaluation of schemers who prove to be successful, in the end, such as Augustus, Maecenas and Mucianus.