comment on theme

Murder, intrigue, mayhem, and paranoia were hallmarks of Herod's rule. Back in the days before Herod underlying themes of greed, mistrust and self-dealing were already in place. Despite his talent Herod's achievements even like Masada for instance were based on his fundamental insecurity and anxiety about those around him. He fortified fortress Masada for refuge from Jewish masses or Egyptian queen Cleopatra. Working his way up the "hard way" Antipater, his father was an Idumaean who committed his loyalty to Caesar for benefit of himself and five children. Antipater, a commoner shared his new authority and riches with his oldest sons to give them a "leg up" on their career. As if fated, his most successful son Herod married the commoner Doris whose oldest son Antipater ironically undid him by instigating the death of his noble-born second sons. Mariamme, his royal "trophy wife" carried grudges of her grandfather Hyrcanus and her brother Jonathan killed through Herod's intrigue.