Trimalchio

Trimalchio, a rich freedman in Petronius’ Satyrica, is the central character in the longest preserved episode, known as the “dinner of Trimalchio.” This episode is noted for its literary sophistication and portrayal of the historical wealth and status of freedmen under the Julio-Claudian empire. It provides valuable insight into the language spoken by less-cultured social classes, and descriptions of Trimalchio's house and tomb offer material for interpreting the Vesuvian area's material reality.