The History of Nero

Jacob Abbotts The History of Nero is a biography of the infamous Roman Emperor Nero who ruled from 54 to 68 AD. The book details Neros life his reign and his eventual downfall. The book begins with Neros early life and education including his upbringing under his mother Agrippina and his education under the philosopher Seneca. Abbott details Neros rise to power including his succession to the throne at the age of 17 and his early efforts to govern the empire. However Neros reign was marked by scandal and controversy including his alleged involvement in the murder of his mother and his marriage to his half-sister. Abbott also details Neros extravagant spending and his efforts to maintain his grip on power including his persecution of Christians. Ultimately Neros reign came to a dramatic end as he faced a rebellion by the governor of Gaul and was declared a public enemy by the Senate. Nero ultimately committed suicide in 68 AD marking the end of the Julio-Claudian dynasty. Abbotts biography of Nero is sympathetic to the emperor portraying him as a misunderstood and ultimately tragic figure. The book emphasizes Neros artistic and cultural accomplishments including his patronage of the arts and his efforts to promote Greek culture in Rome.