Commodus as Hercules and Caracalla

I have chosen to compare the two sculptures of the emperors, the bust of Commodus as Hercules (page 203) and the head of Caracalla (page 204).  When looking at Commodus as Hercules, I see a vain man that wants to be associated, or thinks that he is associated with the strength and courage of the hero Hercules.  He is seen with Hercules’ club and the head of a lion covering his head.  His bust is stylized, showing no imperfections and a strong upper body.  Commodus seems aloof or carefree.  His face shows no sign of passion or strength, even his eyes look half shut as if he is bored or tired. 

The head of Caracalla is quite different.  Caracalla is shown more naturalistic and intense.  Caracalla looks like more of a leader than Commodus.  He is not wearing a frivolous outfit nor is he trying to associate himself with a well-known hero, he doesn’t have to.  He appears to be a strong, courageous hero just from his attitude in the sculpture.  Caracalla’s eyes appear to be glaring at someone, perhaps an enemy.  The strong lines over his brow intensify the effect of his look of menacing anger or disgust.   Caracalla wants to be seen as this intense, no nonsense leader, even his lips appear serious and steadfast.   He has a strong jaw and even his chin gives the impression of strength.

These two sculptures have more differences than similarities.  They are similar in their propaganda characteristics.  They both want to be seen as strong, fearless, heroic leaders.  Commodus has to conjure up images and characteristics of Hercules to achieve this point whereas Caracalla shows his strength and leadership in his strong facial features alone.  Commodus as Hercules is adorned with many symbolic elements to represent leadership qualities that he may not have.  It is somewhat reminiscent of the Khafre statue in its idealized manner and perceived divine support. 

The main difference in these two great sculptures is the idealistic view that Commodus has of himself compared to the more naturalistic ruggedness in the way Caracalla perceives himself.  Commodus’ eyes are drifting off in a blank lethargic manner while Caracalla is staring forcefully and dauntingly at the viewer.  There is a symbolic nature in the bust of Commodus as Hercules with the club, lion skin, apples, and other objects that seem to have meaning.  Caracalla needs no symbolic elements; he seems to possess many of the qualities that Commodus is trying to convey in leadership and strength.  Commodus has soft features in his sculpture, the smooth skin and perfectly manicured beard and hair, as opposed to the harshness of Caracalla and his short hair and rough stubble of a beard.

The propaganda elements in these sculptures are definitely evident to the audience of that period of time.  They would have understood the comparisons conveyed by the Commodus as Hercules bust.  And, although different in form, they would have understood the strength and leadership qualities that Caracalla was trying to express in his sculpture.  In our times, I believe that Commodus as Hercules would be ridiculed and Caracalla would be seen for the strength that it conveys.  Back when these sculptures were made, they may have had similar effects on the audience, but I believe Caracalla stands the test of time.