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Beast Quote by Tacitus

“Following Emporer Nero's command, "Let the Christians be exterminated!:" . . . they [the Christians] were made the subjects of sport; they were covered with the hides of wild beasts and worried to death by dogs, or nailed to crosses or set fire to, and when the day waned, burned to serve for the…” quote by Tacitus
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“Following Emporer Nero's command, "Let the Christians be exterminated!:" . . . they [the Christians] were made the subjects of sport; they were covered with the hides of wild beasts and worried to death by dogs, or nailed to crosses or set fire to, and when the day waned, burned to serve for the evening lights.”

Tacitus

About This Quote

Source Historical: Annals by Tacitus, 2nd century AD

Nero ordered brutal public spectacles against Christians, using them as entertainment and intimidation.

In simple terms: Nero forced Christians into cruel public punishments.

Key Takeaway

Recognize the cruelty of state‑sanctioned violence.

Themes

persecution violence power spectacle

Mood

grim reflective

Type

historical political

When to use this quote

  • historical analysis
  • human rights discussions
  • theological studies

Key Concepts

Roman Empire religious intolerance

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does public spectacle dehumanize victims?
  • What safeguards prevent state cruelty?
A Different Perspective

Modern governments can also exploit marginalized groups for propaganda.

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