A Perspective on Nero

Emperor Nero of Rome carries a preconceived notion of persecution, cruelty, and insanity. However, he is historically attributed to the execution against his own family the most. In 55 he poisoned his brother and in 59 he was responsible for the murder of his own mother. Consequently, the deaths of two of his wives followed in the years of his rule. While Christians were heavily persecuted by Rome, Nero is not an outstanding example of that or the only cruel emperor. The people of Rome actually supported him throughout his reign. If he had not alienated the Senate, he may be remembered in a kinder light than he is now. Although Nero was supported by some, the concept of him as an embodiment of evil is plausible to those after his rule. Stories of rape, mugging, murder, and homosexual abuse tend to conjure negative connotations. Therefore, Nero is certainly responsible for evil deeds and should in no way be idolized. However, if there were people who supported him he must have been a decent emperor in the public eye, at least at the time. A film representation of Nero as punishing and malicious could very easily slip out of accuracy and take the evil actions much further.