Di Xin of Shang vs Domitian

Di Xin allegedly built a pool filled with wine and hung meat in trees, creating a 'wine pool and meat forest' for extravagant orgies. This story, recorded in later texts, exemplifies his reputation as a decadent tyrant.

Di Xin imprisoned King Wen of Zhou at Youli, a Shang prison. During his captivity, King Wen is said to have studied the I Ching. Di Xin later released him after receiving tribute, a decision that allowed Zhou to continue its rise.

Di Xin's Shang army was defeated by King Wu of Zhou at the Battle of Muye. The Shang forces, including slave soldiers who defected, were routed. This battle ended the Shang dynasty and established Zhou rule over China.

After the defeat at Muye, Di Xin retreated to the Deer Terrace Pavilion, adorned himself with jade, and set the building on fire, burning himself to death. This act became a symbol of his tyranny and the Shang dynasty's fall.

Upon Titus's sudden death, Domitian became emperor, the third of the Flavian dynasty. He was the first emperor to take the title 'Dominus et Deus' (Lord and God), emphasizing autocratic rule.

Domitian led a campaign against the Chatti tribe in Germania, extending the Roman frontier. He built the Limes Germanicus, a system of forts and walls, to secure the border.

Domitian expelled philosophers from Rome and persecuted Christians and Jews for refusing to worship the emperor. He executed several senators and confiscated their property, increasing fear.

Domitian built a vast palace on the Palatine Hill, the Domus Augustana, with grand reception halls and gardens. The palace symbolized imperial power and was used by later emperors.

Domitian was assassinated in a palace conspiracy involving his wife Domitia and Praetorian officials. His death ended the Flavian dynasty and led to the accession of Nerva, the first of the Five Good Emperors.