Week Six

BOOKS XIV-XVI: Power Without Wisdom: Seneca's downfall and the final liberation of Nero

March 11, 2025, 7 PM -8:30 pm

Why does Nero respond to the death of his mother with debauchery (xiv.13)? What is "mother respect" (or reverence)? (cf. Tiberius' "liberation" after the loss of his mother, vi.51.3).

How does Nero turn his erotic desire into a political project to remake and corrupt Rome? What is the effect of his extravagant chariot races, singing competitions, theatrical performances, gladiatorial games, gymnasia, and poetry recitals (xiv.14-16, 20-21, 47)? What sorts of people would be associating with Nero, and could Seneca hope to maintain influence in such a circle?

A man named Tigellinus, similar to Sejanus, arises in Nero's court, and becomes head of the praetorian guard after Burrus dies suspiciously (xiv.51). His son-in-law revives the law of treason (xiv.48). Seneca is accused. Why are the charges that Seneca ridiculed Nero's singing especially damaging (xiv.52.3)? Why is it a fatal sign that Nero increasingly shuns his companionship (xiv.53)?

After Seneca's power is "shattered" (xiv.52, 57), why does he decide to retire from power? Is he frank in his speech to Nero (xiv.53-54) — is he truly grateful for the honors he has received? What does he achieve by it (iv.18.3)? What is the wise way to approach a tyrant like Nero — or is it foolish to try?

What consolation does Seneca provides his friends on his death (xv.62)? Is this satisfying?

Why do men, living in a city of their murdered friends and family, thank the gods for Nero, and fall at his knees and kiss his hands (xv.71)? In contrast, what do the examples of constancy in suicide show us (xv.67-70)? How one would describe the core difference between these two groups?

Reading: Book 14, chapters 13-16, 20-21, 47-65; Book 15, chapters 23, 33-74

(The translation of the Annals that we are using is by Cynthia Damon (Penguin Books, 2012).)