Stuff You Missed in History Class Did Nero really play the fiddle while Rome burned?
Jul 21, 2008
In this podcast, the hosts explore the myth of Nero playing the fiddle while Rome burned during the Great Fire of Rome in AD 64. They debunk this idea and provide accounts of Nero's actual actions during the catastrophe. The discussion also covers Nero's attempt to blame the Christians for the fire and his tragic downfall.
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Scale And Timing Of The Great Fire
- The great fire of A.D. 64 destroyed about 70% of Rome across six days and seven nights.
- The disaster coincided with Nero's unpopular reputation, which amplified suspicion about his role.
Why Accusations Stuck To Nero
- Rumors said Nero started the fire to rebuild Rome to his tastes, feeding public outrage.
- His existing image as a distracted, ineffective ruler made those rumors believable.
The 'Fiddle' Myth Debunked
- The famous image of Nero 'playing the fiddle' as Rome burned is fictional and anachronistic.
- Contemporary sources report Nero coordinated firefighting, sheltered the homeless, and subsidized food.