Petronius Arbiter
Petronius (c. 27-66 AD) was a Roman courtier and author, traditionally identified as the writer of the Satyricon, one of the earliest and most remarkable works of prose fiction from the ancient world. A brilliant, irreverent satire of Roman society, it offers a vivid and often ribald picture of life under the Emperor Nero.
The Satyricon survives only in fragments, but its most famous section — 'Trimalchio's Feast' — is a hilarious, biting portrait of a vulgar, newly rich former slave hosting an outrageously extravagant banquet. Written with wit, realism, and sharp social observation, it satirises greed, pretension, and excess with a strikingly modern eye.
Petronius is thought to have been a favourite of Nero known as the emperor's 'judge of elegance,' before falling from favour. His work is one of our most vivid windows into everyday Roman life.
Our editions present the Satyricon clearly for modern readers. Read the opening free, and read or listen with a membership.
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Frequently asked questions about Petronius Arbiter
What did Petronius write?
Petronius is credited with the Satyricon, a satirical work of prose fiction from the reign of Nero. It survives only in fragments, the most famous being the long episode known as 'Trimalchio's Feast' or the 'Dinner of Trimalchio.' The Satyricon is the work for which he is remembered.
What is the Satyricon about?
The Satyricon is a comic, satirical tale following the misadventures of a few disreputable characters through the seamy underside of Roman society. Its most celebrated surviving section depicts a lavish, absurd banquet thrown by Trimalchio, a crude, boastful former slave who has grown vastly rich. Sharp, funny, and earthy, it satirises the greed and vulgarity of Nero's Rome.
Why is the Satyricon important?
The Satyricon is one of the earliest surviving works of prose fiction and a rare, vivid glimpse of ordinary life in ancient Rome, including the speech and manners of common people. Its realism, humour, and satire feel remarkably modern, and it has influenced writers and filmmakers ever since. It is a landmark of classical literature.
Where should I start with Petronius?
Since only fragments survive, the natural place to begin is the famous 'Trimalchio's Feast' section, which is the longest and most complete part of the Satyricon and its comic highlight. It stands well on its own. Start there.
Is the Satyricon hard to read?
As a fragmentary ancient work, it has gaps that can be disorienting, and older translations can feel dated. But its humour and vivid scenes, especially the great banquet, are lively and accessible. A clear modern edition makes its wit and realism easy to enjoy.
When did Petronius live?
Petronius is generally dated to around 27-66 AD, during the reign of the Roman Emperor Nero. He is traditionally identified with a courtier known as Nero's 'judge of elegance,' who died in 66 AD after falling from favour. The Satyricon is thought to date from this period.
Where can I read the Satyricon for free?
The Satyricon is in the public domain, and older translations are freely available. Some are dated or heavily censored. Here you can read the opening free in clear modern English, and read or listen with a membership.
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