In this rigorously researched biography Jürgen Malitz invites readers to reconsider the reputation of the Roman Emperor Nero.

Focuses on the growing tension between Neros artistic tendencies and his role as emperor.
Steers readers through the diverse interpretations of Nero that have arisen through the ages.
Allows readers to form a balanced judgment of this divisive and controversial Emperor.

Jürgen Malitz is Chair of Ancient History at the Catholic University, Eichstätt. He is the author of numerous articles and books, includingThe Histories of Posidonius (1983) andNicolaus of Damascus, Life of Augustus (2003). Malitz also specialises in the development of PC and Internet applications for the Classics, includingGnomon Online,Numismatische Bilddatenbank Eichstätt, andConcEyst.

List of Illustrations.

Nero's Family Tree.

The Roman Empire.

Timeline.

Part I: Augustus Great-great-grandson.

Part II: Heir to the Throne.

Part III: Quinquennium Neronis.

Part IV: Matricide.

Part V: What a loss for the theatre.

Part VI:The Princeps and the Populace of Rome.

Part VII:The Provinces of the Empire.

Part VIII: The Great Fire of Rome.

Part IX: Opposition.

Part X: Trip to Greece.

Part XI: The End of the Dynasty.

Part XII: Quo Vadis? Neros Afterlife.

Appendix: The Lives of the Twelve Caesars: An English Translation, Augmented with the Biographies of Contemporary Statesmen, Orators, Poets, and Other Associates: Suetonius.

Bibliography.

Index