Betwixt The Sheets: The History of Sex, Scandal & Society History's Worst F*ckboys: Emperor Nero
Sep 16, 2025
In a revealing discussion, historian Alex Meddings explores Emperor Nero's outrageous life. He dives into Nero's notorious reputation as a historical 'f*ckboy,' analyzing his manipulative actions and dark family drama, including the shocking assassination of his mother, Agrippina. The conversation also tackles themes of masculinity reflected in Nero's controversial marriages and highlights the scandalous legacy he left behind, including his artistic aspirations amid political chaos, ultimately probing whether he truly ranks as history's worst.
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Groomed Teen Emperor
- Nero rose to power as a teenager under the heavy hand of his mother Agrippina and guardians Seneca and Burrus.
- That early structure explains his theatrical, insecure rule and reliance on advisors rather than steady governance.
Britannicus Poisoned
- Nero poisoned his stepbrother Britannicus after long-standing rivalry and childhood squabbling.
- Agrippina and palace manoeuvring pushed Nero into consolidating power through lethal means.
Matricide By Collapsible Boat
- Agrippina survived a planned collapsing-boat murder by swimming to shore but was later killed on Nero's orders.
- Nero then publicly framed her as a schemer to justify matricide and erase opposition.