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 evening lights.”
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.
Recognize the cruelty of state‑sanctioned violence.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- historical analysis
- human rights discussions
- theological studies
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does public spectacle dehumanize victims?
- What safeguards prevent state cruelty?
Modern governments can also exploit marginalized groups for propaganda.