13.07.2015 Views

Seneca - College of Stoic Philosophers

Seneca - College of Stoic Philosophers

Seneca - College of Stoic Philosophers

SHOW MORE
SHOW LESS

You also want an ePaper? Increase the reach of your titles

YUMPU automatically turns print PDFs into web optimized ePapers that Google loves.

CHAPTER IXDECLINE OF SENECA's INFLUENCE—DEATHOF BURRHUS AND OF OCTAVIA, A.D. 60-62In spite <strong>of</strong> Nero's growing self-confidence andimpatience <strong>of</strong> control, his aversion from businesssecured two more years <strong>of</strong> relatively wise andhumane administration to Rome after the death<strong>of</strong> Agrippina. Until his vanity, that ' insatiatecormorant,' had consumed the vast resourcesleft for its satisfaction by the economies <strong>of</strong> hispredecessor, he was under no temptation toresort to oppression for its further supply. Thelaw <strong>of</strong> majestashad been suffered to becomeobsolete ;informers had been discouraged ;governors <strong>of</strong> provinces had been made to give astrict account <strong>of</strong> their stewardship, and punishedwhen they deserved it ;and the popularity whichthese wise measures <strong>of</strong> his ministers broughtto the prince was more than doubled by theextravagance<strong>of</strong> his shows and his lavish distributions<strong>of</strong> presents to the people.The chief event at Rome <strong>of</strong> the year60 wasthe solemn institution by Nero <strong>of</strong> quinquennialgames, consisting <strong>of</strong> gymnastic and musical contests,and also <strong>of</strong> chariot racing— destined to be

Hooray! Your file is uploaded and ready to be published.

Saved successfully!

Ooh no, something went wrong!