Gaius Petronius
Proper noun A Roman writer and courtier during the reign of Emperor Nero. He is traditionally identified as the author of the Satyricon, a satirical novel that provides a vivid, often humorous and critical portrayal of 1st-century Roman society. He is known for his sophisticated taste and was given the title arbiter elegantiae ("judge of elegance") in Nero's court. Historical accounts, particularly from Tacitus, describe his death by suicide in AD 66.
This term is used almost exclusively in historical, literary, and academic contexts to refer to the historical figure and presumed author. * The works of Gaius Petronius offer a unique glimpse into the daily life and morals of ancient Rome. * Scholars often debate the precise authorship of the Satyricon, but it is most commonly attributed to Gaius Petronius.
- As "Petronius Arbiter": He is frequently referred to by this combined name, emphasizing his role as the "arbiter of elegance."
- The character of Trimalchio in the novel by Petronius Arbiter is a famous parody of a wealthy freedman.
- Petronius: The most common shortened form of the name.
- The satire of Petronius is both sharp and entertaining.
- Petronian (adj): Relating to or characteristic of Petronius or his work.
- The novel's Petronian style mixes prose and poetry.
- Petronius Arbiter: The full title referencing his courtly role.
- The Arbiter of Elegance: A descriptive synonym for his historical function.
- "A Petronian feast": Used to describe an extravagantly lavish and decadent banquet, alluding to the "Feast of Trimalchio" episode in the .
- The billionaire's party was a veritable Petronian feast, with excessive food and entertainment.
- Roman satirist (died in 66)