Nero`s personality and crimes have always intrigued historians and writers of fiction. However, his reign also illuminates the nature of the Julio-Claudian Principate. Nero`s suicide brought to an end the dynasty Augustus had founded, and placed in jeopardy the political system he had devised.
Miriam T. Griffin`s authoratitive survey of Nero`s reign incorporates both a chronological account, as well as an analysis of the reasons for Nero`s collapse under the pressure of his role as emperor.