Gaius PetroniusGaius Petronius Arbiter (27-66 AD), also known as Titus Petronius Niger, was a Roman courtier and writer who lived during the reign of Emperor Nero (54-68 AD). Petronius rose to prominence in the imperial court, eventually becoming Nero's arbiter eleantiae or "judge of elegance"-a position that made him the emperor's trusted advisor on matters of taste and style. Petronius was known for his hedonistic lifestyle and sharp wit. His life came to a dramatic end when he was forced to commit suicide after falling out of favor with Nero. Read More Read Less