Nevertheless , though the senatorial order came to hate and fear him , the evidence suggests that he remained popular with the army and the common people for much of his reign , not least because of his lavish shows of largesse ( recorded on his coinage ) and because he staged and took part in spectacular gladiatorial combats .
Nevertheless , though the senatorial order came to hate and fear him , the evidence suggests that he remained popular with the army and the common people for much of his reign . He made lavish shows of gifts ( recorded on his coinage ) and he staged and took part in spectacular gladiatorial combats .