In a move towards historical inclusivity and respect, the North Hertfordshire Museum has decided to relabel its display about the Roman emperor Elagabalus, recognizing the historical figure's identity as a trans woman.
Henceforth, the museum will use female pronouns, referring to the emperor as "she" and "her," BBC News reports.
This decision is rooted in classical texts that suggest Elagabalus's preference for a different gender identity. According to historical accounts, the emperor once declared, "call me not Lord, for I am a Lady."
To honor this aspect of the emperor's identity, the museum has chosen to be sensitive to identifying pronouns used by people in the past.
Elagabalus's coin, a significant artifact, is part of the museum's collection, often displayed alongside other LGBTQ+ items. To ensure that its displays, publicity, and talks are up-to-date and inclusive, the museum consulted with LGBTQ+ charity Stonewall.
Marcus Aurelius Antoninus, known as Elagabalus, held the Roman empire's reins for a brief period, ruling from 218 AD until their assassination at the age of 18 in 222 AD. Their reign was marked by controversy, especially due to their perceived sexual promiscuity.
Cassius Dio, a senator and contemporary of Elagabalus, chronicled the emperor's life and relationships. Dio's accounts reveal that Elagabalus was married five times—four times to women and once to Hiercoles, a former slave and chariot driver. In their final marriage, the emperor was described as being "bestowed in marriage and was termed wife, mistress, and queen."
The debate surrounding Elagabalus's gender identity has persisted among academics. Dr. Shushma Malik, a classics professor at Cambridge University, points out that the historians who provide insight into Elagabalus's life were often hostile towards them. Consequently, their accounts may not be entirely reliable. There is no direct evidence from Elagabalus themself regarding their gender identity.
Dr. Malik adds that effeminate language and words were sometimes used in Roman literature to criticize or weaken political figures. References to Elagabalus wearing makeup, wigs, and removing body hair might have been written to undermine the emperor's reputation.
While Romans were aware of the concept of gender fluidity, it was more commonly associated with myth and religion than with living individuals. However, Councillor Keith Hoskins, the executive member for Enterprise and Arts at North Herts Council, emphasizes that texts like Cassius Dio's provide evidence that "Elagabalus most definitely preferred the 'she' pronoun." He believes that recognizing this preference is standard practice when discussing the emperor in contemporary times.
"We know that Elagabalus identified as a woman and was explicit about which pronouns to use, which shows that pronouns are not a new thing," Hoskins concludes.
The North Hertfordshire Museum's decision reflects a commitment to respecting historical identities and honoring the emperor's wishes in the present day.
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