Dictionary of Phrase and Fable—N

Nero

Emperor of Rome. Some say he set fire to Rome to see “how Troy would look when it was in flames;” others say he forbade the flames to be put out, and went to a high tower, where he sang verses to his lute

“Upon the Burning of Old Troy.”

A Nero.
Any bloody-minded man, relentless tyrant, or evil-doer of extra-ordinary savagery.

Source: Dictionary of Phrase and Fable, E. Cobham Brewer, 1894
Nero of the North
Nerissa
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