1.5 Nero AD 54-68 Flashcards
What is the term used to describe the first five years of Nero’s reign?
quinquennium aureum
This term refers to the ‘golden years’ at the beginning of Nero’s reign where he seemed to fulfill expectations.
What consistent criticism is directed at Nero regarding his cultural preferences?
philhellenism
This term indicates his love of all things Greek, which was seen as a disregard for Roman values.
Which two activities are highlighted as defining characteristics of Nero’s reign?
music and theatre
His love for these activities infuriated traditionalists like Tacitus.
True or False: Tacitus viewed Nero’s interest in chariot-racing favorably.
False
Tacitus expressed snobbery towards activities he considered beneath the dignity of the Roman elite.
What does the Colossus of Nero symbolize?
self-indulgence and desire for immortality in the arts
The immense bronze statue represents Nero’s excesses and aspirations.
At what age did Nero ascend to the throne?
sixteen
He became emperor in 54 AD.
Who were the key figures that stage-managed Nero’s rise to power?
Agrippina, Burrus, and Seneca
These individuals played significant roles in securing Nero’s position as emperor.
What was Agrippina’s alleged influence over Nero during his early reign?
powerful influence
She was instrumental in his rise and remained a significant force in his decisions.
Fill in the blank: Agrippina allegedly used _______ as a means to control Nero.
sex
What happened to Britannicus, Claudius’ son, during Nero’s rise to power?
murdered at a banquet in 55
This act was part of Nero’s consolidation of power.
In what year was Agrippina removed from power?
59
Her removal marked a significant shift in Nero’s rule.
What significant relationship did Nero’s marriage to Octavia establish?
legitimacy
The marriage was primarily for political legitimacy rather than affection.
What was the fate of Octavia after her marriage to Nero?
exiled and murdered in 62
Nero accused her of sexual outrages before her execution.
Who was Nero’s second wife and what was her significance?
Poppaea Sabina
Her marriage followed the execution of Octavia and was influenced by political motives.
What was a notable act of Nero after the death of his wife Poppaea?
deified her and their daughter
This act was seen as a sign of genuine affection and possibly guilt.
Who was Nero’s third wife?
Statilia Messalina
Her marriage to Nero was likely motivated by a desire for a more respectable public image.
What was the relationship between Nero’s wives and the portrayal of his character?
They reflect the sources’ presentation of Nero
Each wife represents different facets of his character and reign.
What was the most significant opposition to Nero in 65?
The Pisonian Conspiracy
The figurehead of the conspiracy was Gaius Calpurnius Piso.
Who provided the fullest account of the Pisonian Conspiracy?
Tacitus (Annals, 15)
Tacitus describes the motivations and participants in detail.
Which groups were involved in the Pisonian Conspiracy?
Senators, equestrians, soldiery, and even women
Tacitus notes the widespread nature of the conspiracy.
What was a notable characteristic of Gaius Calpurnius Piso according to Tacitus?
Affable character rather than a political firebrand
Piso was seen as being exploited by his co-conspirators.
Who was the primary assailant designated to stab Nero?
Flavius Scaevinus
He was to use a specially procured dagger.
What was the outcome of the Pisonian Conspiracy?
Many conspirators were arrested and executed, including Seneca
Nero used the conspiracy as an excuse to purge dissent.
What significant event occurred on 18-19 July 64 during Nero’s reign?
The Great Fire of Rome
It caused mass destruction, affecting many districts.
What did Tacitus suggest about Nero’s involvement in the Great Fire?
He was at Antium when the fire broke out, returning only when Palatine Hill was threatened
Tacitus focuses on the panic and selfishness of the people.
What project did Nero pursue following the Great Fire?
The construction of the Domus Aurea (‘Golden House’)
This was a sprawling series of connected structures.
What was the general public reaction to Nero’s rebuilding efforts after the fire?
Welcomed for their practicality and order
New building regulations were seen as beneficial.
What significant rebellion occurred in Britain during Nero’s reign?
The rebellion led by Boudicca in 61
Further uprisings occurred in late 68 and early 69.
Who led a significant revolt in Gaul against Nero?
Gaius Julius Vindex
His actions ultimately contributed to Nero’s downfall.
What was the Senate’s response to Nero during his reign?
Remarkably compliant, even after Agrippina’s death
They met him in ‘festive garb’.
What was Thrasea Pactus known for during Nero’s reign?
Being a voice of opposition in the Senate
His actions marked the beginning of ‘Stoic’ opposition.
Fill in the blank: Nero was known for providing a variety of _______ to win the affection of the plebs.
entertainments
He was particularly fond of chariot-racing.
What did Nero do that was seen as a means to celebrate his generosity?
Practiced largesse and provided large-scale handouts
The sestertius of 64 depicted the corn dole.
What was one of the criticisms of Nero regarding his governance?
He enacted administrative amendments but maintained a self-indulgent lifestyle
Most governance was handed over to subordinates.
True or False: Nero actively promoted the imperial cult throughout his reign.
False
He was more focused on non-traditional religions and scapegoating Christians.
What was the nature of Vindex’s rebellion according to Dio Cassius?
A desire for freedom from oppression
Vindex is portrayed as a heroic figurehead.
What did Vindex’s coinage suggest about his revolt?
It was about the nature of governance rather than nationalism
His claims to have acted for the Senate and People of Rome.
What practice did Nero employ to win the affection of the public?
Generosity through largesse
Largesse refers to the generous giving of gifts or money, a common practice among emperors to gain public favor.
What type of entertainments did Nero provide?
Gladiatorial Games and Animal Hunts, Theatrical Performances, Chariot Races, Banquets and Public Feasts, Musical and Artistic Performances, Religious Festivals
Suetonius records that Nero was known for his lavish entertainment offerings.
What does the sestertius of 64 depict, and what was its significance?
The corn dole
The depiction suggests Nero wished to be remembered for his generosity through public handouts.
What was Nero’s particular love in terms of entertainment?
Chariot-racing
Chariot racing was a popular form of entertainment in ancient Rome, and Nero’s passion for it was well-documented.
At what point did the public begin to turn against Nero?
At the very end of his reign
Despite his earlier popularity, resentment grew due to his actions and policies.
What popular resentment did Suetonius note about Nero?
Profiteering in grain
This refers to accusations that Nero exploited grain supplies for personal gain, leading to public discontent.
What does the continued popularity of pretenders impersonating Nero indicate?
Nero was a populist emperor
This suggests that despite his flaws, Nero maintained a significant level of personal loyalty from the populace.
Who continued to benefit from Nero’s rule despite his victimization of the upper classes?
Urban plebs and provincials
The majority of the lower classes enjoyed the benefits of Nero’s pleasure-driven policies.
