Clodia Metelli

   Clodia Metelli was the eldest of an unusually large family of six children-three boys, three girls-she was born before the year 95 BCE. She was born into the Roman family known as the “Claudii” They were an established, aristocratic family whose history stretched back into Ancient Rome. They were active in the political construct of the city.

Most Roman girls at this time were given only one name, the feminine form of the family name. Clodia is a variant of the name “Claudia”. Clodia’s father was Claudius Pulcher, a chief annual magistrate. Through blood and marriage Clodia was linked to many of the most powerful Roman Statesmen: her brothers, her husband, and two brother-in-law who also became consuls. She was set up for a successful light. 

Clodia Metelli was the epitome of Roman Corruption. Clodia was imperious, rich, and spiteful. Clodia was known to have an ill reputation, a contributor to this would be poet “C. Valerius Catullus” who was believed to be one of her lovers. In his poetry he created a figure of a mistress who was called “Lesbia.” In the end of his story, Lesbia becomes ravenous and embraces all of her lovers at once. This fictional image of Clodia shows how she was seen by fellow Romans. 

The famous philosopher, Cicero, contributed to her infamy. In his well known speech, “Pro Caelio” he harshly criticizes Clodia’s character. Portraying her as a corrupting force in men’s lives, suggesting that anyone who fell for her charm cannot be blamed for any of their actions.

In her later years, Clodia enjoyed financial security, independence, and an active role in society. Unlike most Roman women of her time, Clodia's influence made her a highly unique figure. Ultimately, the historical record unfortunately presents Clodia Metelli as a product of the men around her, whose lives she so memorably intersected.