Marcus Valerius Messalla Corvinus
Who was Marcus Valerius Messalla Corvinus?
1st-century BC Roman politician and general
Biographical data adapted from Wikipedia’s article on Marcus Valerius Messalla Corvinus (CC BY-SA 4.0).
Biography
Marcus Valerius Messalla Corvinus (64 BC – AD 8) was a well-regarded Roman general, author, and supporter of the arts during the late Roman Republic and the beginning of the Empire. Born into the patrician Valerii family, he initially opposed Octavian after Julius Caesar's assassination and fought with Marcus Junius Brutus at the Battle of Philippi in 42 BC. After the defeat of the republican cause, Messalla wisely switched sides and became one of Octavian's trusted commanders and advisors.
As a military leader, Messalla achieved success in various campaigns. He did well in the East against the Parthians and later led forces in Gaul and along the Rhine. His most notable military success was during his time as governor of Gallia Aquitania, where he calmed rebellious tribes and expanded Roman control, earning him a triumph in Rome and boosting his political career in the new imperial system.
Messalla was also known for his intellectual contributions. He was a capable orator and historian, writing respected works on Roman history and grammar. He supported poets and scholars, including the young Ovid, and his literary group was one of the key cultural centers in Augustan Rome. His support helped Latin literature thrive during this golden age.
In politics, Messalla served as consul in 31 BC, the same year as the Battle of Actium, and briefly as urban prefect under Augustus. He resigned from the latter position after just six days, reportedly saying it didn't align with his principles. He married twice, first to Calpurnia and later to Aurelia, staying connected with the elite circles of Rome. Messalla died in AD 8, having successfully navigated the shift from Republic to Empire while keeping his intellectual and cultural pursuits alive.
Before Fame
Born into the old aristocratic family of the Valerii during the chaotic final century of the Roman Republic, Messalla grew up in a time full of civil wars, political upheaval, and the slow collapse of republican institutions. He probably received the typical education of a Roman aristocrat, learning rhetoric, philosophy, and military skills, to prepare for a public service career.
During his youth, powerful figures like Pompey, Caesar, and later the members of the Second Triumvirate overshadowed the political scene. Young nobles like Messalla had to pick sides in the ongoing conflicts, and his initial support for the republican cause under Brutus showed both family traditions and the ideological splits of the time. The defeat at Philippi was a turning point for both the Republic and individuals like Messalla, who had to adjust to new political realities as Octavian began to take control.
Key Achievements
- Commanded successful military campaigns in Gaul and along the Rhine frontier
- Served as consul in 31 BC during the critical year of the Battle of Actium
- Established one of the most influential literary circles in Augustan Rome
- Authored respected works on Roman history and Latin grammar
- Successfully transitioned from republican opponent to trusted imperial advisor
Did You Know?
- 01.He resigned from the position of urban prefect after only six days, claiming he did not understand the duties of the office
- 02.Messalla was one of the few former enemies of Augustus who successfully transitioned to become a trusted advisor in the new regime
- 03.He wrote a work on the Latin language that was cited by later grammarians and scholars
- 04.His literary circle included the young poet Ovid, whom he supported early in the poet's career
- 05.Messalla fought on three different sides during the civil wars: first with Brutus, then with Antony, and finally with Octavian