Quo Vadis: A Narrative of the Time of Nero

"Quo Vadis: A Narrative of the Time of Nero" by Henryk Sienkiewicz is a novel that shows the drama of ancient Rome under the rule of Nero, where old Roman customs are challenged by the rise of Christianity. The book follows Marcus Vinicius, a Roman soldier, and Lygia, a Christian woman he falls in love with, as their relationship struggles against the problems and corruption of the empire. Readers meet Petronius, an influential advisor to Nero, and soon after meet Marcus Vinicius, who tells of his love for Lygia. As the story begins amidst fancy Roman life styles, Vinicius decides to win Lygia over, even though things will be difficult because of their different backgrounds. This start gives a preview of the trials that await the characters as they deal with difficult choices between love, religious beliefs, and the harsh realities of Roman rule.