The History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, by Edward Gibbon

Chapter VI: Death Of Severus, Tyranny Of Caracalla, Usurpation Of Macrinus

The Death Of Severus.—Tyranny Of Caracalla.—Usurpation Of Macrinus.—Follies Of Elagabalus.—Virtues Of Alexander Severus.—Licentiousness Of The Army.—General State Of The Roman Finances.