caligulism
Etymology
From Caligula + -ism. The coining of this term is often attributed to Horace Walpole, who used it to describe Frederick, Prince of Wales, in a letter written on November 29, 1745, but in fact, the use of the term predates Walpole.
caligulism means madness, especially when of an extravagant or sadistic nature. Lexicurio rates it Rare gem — a strength score of 82 out of 100.
Why “caligulism” is a great word
CALIGULISM — [Noun] A form of madness, particularly that of a ruler, characterized by extravagant, theatrical, and sadistic behavior. From the Roman emperor Caligula (known for his cruelty and excess) + the suffix -ism (denoting a practice or system). First attested in 1745, and its coining is often attributed to Horace Walpole. Unlike tyranny, which describes an oppressive political structure, or megalomania, which denotes a delusion of grandeur, caligulism is the personal fusion of lunacy and power made spectacle. It is the whim to appoint a horse to high office, the caprice that executes a subject for a yawn, and the lavish banquet served on a ship of captives drowned for amusement—the point where power, having shed all purpose, becomes a private and exquisitely cruel theater.
noun
- Madness, especially when of an extravagant or sadistic nature.“The laſt token of your Caliguliſm ſhall be the Sacrifices vvhich he appointed of Pheaſants and Peacocks to his Deity: & accordingly your Friend the Author of the Friendly Debate hath ſacrificed a Pheasant, and I have ſacrificed a Peacock to your Divinity; and I hope it vvill be therefore henceforth and for ever to me propitious and favourable.”