Xenophon - Imperial physician

Xenophon served Emperor Claudius in the last years of his reign (c. 53–54 C.E.). Xenophon was originally from Cos (Kos), where his family was held in high esteem. As a gift to him in 53, Claudius granted a special Immunitas (tax exemption) to the entire island.

Tacitus (1) wrote that Xenophon had been bought by Agrippina and was part of the murder of Claudius in 54. When the poisoned mushrooms failed to bring about the emperor’s death, Xenophon was summoned to use a feather dipped in poison to ensure that Claudius died rapidly.

No comments:

Post a Comment