Julius Caesar Planned His Assassination?

[Crag]

Just saw an interesting program on the history channel, that put forth the theory that Julius Caesar knew he was deteriorating physical and mentally (epilepsy) and purposely provoked the senate to assassination...a suicide by police scenario.

 

He then handsomely awarded the roman peolple assuring he woud be cast as the people's champion assuring his fame, heir and the birth of the empire when the roman citizens demanded vengence directed towards the senate.

 

Thoughts, opinions, crack pot ideas. all welcome.

 

Discuss...

[P.Clodius]

Caesar was winding down physically toward the end and was recovering from illness when he was assassinated. Was he aware of the plot against him, unlikely. But he was aware of the rumours that his life maybe in danger. His physical condition may have been hard to accept for a man such as Caesar, someone who had been vigorous and energetic all his life. Eitherway, had he gone on the expedition to conquer Parthia and died en route, he'd still be remembered as a great Roman.

[dnewhous]

I have a theory that he was from another planet.

[Germanicus]

I've heard this theory before (not the Alien one) Caesar is said to have been asked in the days leading up to the assasination what he thought was the best way to die - he replied "Suddenly" and is said to have hated the idea of a slow decline.

[Ursus]

I saw that documentary. The evidence presented is substantial enough I can't totally dismiss it out of hand.

[Primus Pilus]

We must keep in mind that to a Roman suidcide was an honorable form of death. The idea that Caesar, to prevent himself from slipping into a weakened mental and physical state (therefore affecting his overall dignity), would commit suicide by willingly offering himself up isn't completely ridiculous. It seems a bit extravagant, but it does fit somewhat into Caesar's history of political behaviour.

[Germanicus]

And being a Caesarphile, it's a nice thought too