Roman Society from Nero to Marcus Aurelius

"Roman Society from Nero to Marcus Aurelius" by Samuel Dill is a journey through a transformative era in the Roman Empire, pinpointing the contrast between corruption and virtue. It paints a picture of Roman life from the days of Nero's cruel ruling to Marcus Aurelius's philosophical reign. The book shows how extreme luxury and declining morals existed alongside a desire for philosophical understanding. Early on, the book lays the groundwork for understanding the contrasting influences and moral difficulties of the time. Dill introduces the shift from emperors known for their cruelty to leaders who aimed to rule more justly, as well as the influence of thinkers like Seneca, highlighting the stark differences between the extravagant lifestyles of the powerful and the moral battles fought by ordinary people as they navigated the excesses and oppression of their time.