THE FIVE ROMANS
	Poppaea, who became the emperor Nero's mistress and later his second wife. It is alleged that Nero murdered his mother and had his first wife executed at her instigation. Poppaea was kicked to death by Nero while pregnant.		Petronius Arbiter, friend of Nero and author of the Satyricon, the first novel ever written and a scandalous and surreal work. Petronius committed suicide at Nero's order by opening his veins at a party.
Quintus Roscius, a popular clown, was the first actor to achieve fame in what had formerly been a slave profession. As a youth, Quintus' beauty and wit made him a popular male companion for Roman patricians. However, his premature balding caused him to give up this career and turn to the stage, where he gained such renown that the emperor Nero freed him and raised him to equestrian rank.		Marcus Tullius Cicero, the famed orator and ancient Rome's pre-eminent advocate of commitment to the "res publica" ("public affairs"). Late in life, he led the Senate's unsuccessful battle against Mark Antony, for which he paid with his life. His hands and head were cut off and displayed in the Senate as an example to others.
	Germania Servius, a barbarian slave from Germania on the embattled fringe of the Roman empire. With her slight build and handsome features she was able to pass as a young man and is rumored to have fought in at least one battle against the Romans before her capture. Superstituous and crafty, she is forever vigilant for opportunities to gain her freedom.		HOME