Early government and personal power
Seneca and the praetorian prefect Burrus were influential during Nero’s early rule. His relationship with his mother Agrippina deteriorated, and he ordered her killing in 59 CE. After the Great Fire of 64 CE, reconstruction included the enormous Domus Aurea. His artistic performances and political violence shaped the hostile tradition surrounding his reign.
The dynasty’s collapse
The revolts of Vindex in Gaul and Galba in Spain exposed Nero’s weakening authority. When the praetorians abandoned him and the Senate declared him an enemy, he fled and took his own life in June 68 CE. The end of the Julio-Claudian line led to a new struggle for imperial power.
Historical sources
Tacitus, Annals 13–16
Nero’s early reign, Agrippina’s death, and the fire.
Suetonius, Nero 40–49
Rebellion, abandonment, and the emperor’s final days.