Marcus Annaeus Lucanus

Marcus Annaeus Lucanus was born into a wealthy family in Córdoba, Hispania, to Marcus Annaeus Mela and Atilia Tertulla.

Lucanus began his early education in Córdoba, receiving instruction in grammar, rhetoric, and literature, which laid the foundation for his future literary career.

Lucanus and his family moved to Rome, where he continued his education, studying under the prominent rhetorician Seneca the Elder and the philosopher Cornutus.

Lucanus began publishing his early poetic works, including occasional poems and elegies, which gained him recognition in Roman literary circles.

Lucanus was adopted by Nero's mother, Agrippina the Younger, which elevated his social status and brought him closer to the imperial court.

Lucanus was appointed as a quaestor, a junior magistrate position, marking the beginning of his political career and involvement in the Roman government.

Lucanus published 'De Incendio Urbis,' a poem about the Great Fire of Rome, which gained him significant literary acclaim.

Lucanus married Claudia Pulchra, a woman of noble birth, solidifying his social and political connections in Rome.

Lucanus was appointed as a praetor, a high-ranking judicial and administrative official, further advancing his political career.

Lucanus started composing his epic poem 'Pharsalia,' which would become his most famous work, chronicling the civil war between Julius Caesar and Pompey the Great.

Lucanus joined the Pisonian conspiracy, a plot to assassinate Emperor Nero and replace him with Gaius Calpurnius Piso, due to his growing disillusionment with Nero's rule.

Lucanus was betrayed by a conspirator and arrested by Emperor Nero, who accused him of treason and ordered his execution.

Lucanus was forced to commit suicide by opening his veins, as ordered by Emperor Nero, bringing a tragic end to his life and career.