Reflections of Nero: Culture, History, & Representation

by Jaś Elsner

The familiar image of Nero (37-68 A.D.) is that of a tyrannical, lustful, and inept emperor. This collection of thirteen original essays provides a fresh interpretation of Nero and his era, assessing the full spectrum of the period's culture and politics--aspects that until now have rarely been taken seriously. The introduction sets the myth of Nero in a modern context and explores its enduring fascination. The next section of the book examines how the myth of Nero has developed both in Roman historiography and in modern popular culture, including films. The remaining essays address the culture of Neroian Rome, including its history, literature, art, and architecture. The result is a dramatic reevaluation of the era, recapturing the richness and vitality of the age of Nero. The contributors are Susan E. Alcock, Tamsyn Barton, Catherine Connors, Catharine Edwards, Jas Elsner, Justin Goddard, Emily Gowers, Jamie Masters, Joan Pau-Rubies, Alessandro Schiesaro, Yun Lee Too, Gareth Williams, and Maria Wyke.

Hardcover

First published February 1, 1994