It’s no secret that ancient Greece and Rome nourished relationships filled with homoerotic subtext. Whether that of a teacher and student, or a master and slave, many of these relationships have been romanticized in literature, such as The Gladiator’s Master by Fae Sutherland, The Soldier of Raetia by Heather Domin or even Spartan Love by Leo David. One such relationship is that of Emperor Hadrian and Antinous. 

Hadrian ruled over ancient Rome, and had been involved in various political skirmishes to expand the empire. He had an enthusiasm for Greek culture, and had even completed the restoration of the Roman Pantheon. Hadrian met Antinous while he was touring his empire; Antinous was studying in Italy. Eventually, the two developed a profound bond, and Hadrian later took Antinous as a lover. Even though Hadrian married Vibia Sabina, Hadrian showed no sexual interest in women. Early evidence has even said that Antinous might have genuinely loved Hadrian, since there was no reason for Antinous to use Hadrian’s affections for any personal gain. During Hadrian’s rule, Antinous would accompany him throughout many of his travels. Hadrian kept Antinous close, and had even saved him from a lion. Even when Antinous died, Hadrian proclaimed Antinous to be a deity, immortalizing his lover in the annals of time.

Interestingly enough, because of Hadrian’s actions, a cult that worshipped Antinous soon spread. Many of the priests in Egypt had followed Hadrian’s example and identified Antinous with the Egyptian god, Osiris. According to historians, Hadrian’s love, as well as the potential for sociopolitical gain, could explain the cult’s spread. Either way, Antinous was regarded as a hero and benevolent deity who would help his followers in times of need. He is seen as one of the lesser gods, though in Abrahamic folklore these gods were thought to be evil spirits.

Many authors have noted the close relationship the two had. What’s more, they’ve garnered the attention of many activists in the LGBT community, and have even served as inspirations for other works. For instance, Antinous has been a gay icon for many, and played an important part in the acceptance of LGBT communities in Europe during the 1800s. Oscar Wilde referred to Antinous as The Young King, and even referenced him in The Picture of Dorian Gray. In Les Miserables by Victor Hugo, one of the characters is similar to that of Antinous in his beauty. 

Nevertheless, the romance between Hadrian and Antinous is akin to that of a fairytale. It showed the bond between the two men, and how it was built upon a foundation of love, intelligence, and trust. Hadrian’s actions to immortalize Antinous were also seen as devotion to his young lover, despite his sorrowful end. It’s a love story that many writers have turned to time and time again, whether it be for inspiration, or for simple enjoyment. Like many love stories, the themes are timeless and that's why they endure.