A Dictionary of Greek and Roman biography and mythology

was consul in the year (A. D. 65) in which the conspiracy of Piso was formed against Nero. Atticus was a man of firm character, and possessed great natural talents; Piso was afraid lest he might restore liberty or proclaim some one emperor. Although innocent he was put to death by Nero on the detection of the conspiracy. Atticus had been very intimate with the emperor, but had incurred his hatred, as he had taken no pains to disguise the contempt in which he held the emperor. He had still further increased the emperor's hatred by marrying Statilia Messallina, although he knew that Nero was among her lovers. (Tac. Ann. 15.48, 52, 68, 69.)