as an artist and a religious visionary. His attempts at acting became increasingly more absurd and embarrassing for Roman Citizens. He wanted to focus instead on his writings, acting, and chariot racing. After returning home from a chariot race, Nero and Poppaea got into a fierce argument. Nero kicked Poppaea in the stomach causing a fatal hemorrhage. Poppaea’s death threw Nero into a dark depression. Nero further neglected the business of tending to his empire. Because of the deteriorating state of the empire, Nero was to blame. Gallic and Spanish legions, including the Praetorian Guard, rose against him. He fled Rome. In 68 AD, The Senate declared him a public enemy. He committed suicide shortly before his capture. His last words were: “What a great artist dies!” Nero’s rule over Rome lasted about fourteen years. Comparable Book Review not found. Searched New York Times Index and Book Review digest. ...
