Nero

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The Roman emperor Nero is often viewed as the archetype of a bad ruler—cruel, vain, and incompetent. He committed incest with his mother, who had orchestrated his rise to power, and later murdered her. Infamously, he allegedly set fire to Rome while playing his lyre and subsequently constructed a grand palace on the ruins. Historians of his time despised him, and their negative accounts have persisted through history. Yet, a mystery lingers: after his downfall and suicide, flowers were mysteriously placed on his grave, suggesting he was loved by some. In this nuanced biography, Anthony Everitt explores the contradictions of Nero's reign, offering a fresh perspective on his life. He vividly depicts ancient Rome, from its crowded streets prone to fires to the political intrigues that could be deadly. Despite his heinous acts, Nero managed the empire effectively, achieving diplomatic success with the Parthian empire and overseeing the conquest of Britain, alongside the revolt of British queen Boudica. A patron of the arts, Nero had a passion for music and won the loyalty of the lower classes through grand spectacles. He envisioned a future for Rome, but his insecurities and guilt over his violent actions may have hindered his ability to lead.