Nero's reign is commonly associated with tyranny and extravagance.  He is remembered for a series of systematic executions, including that of his own mother and his half-brother, and above all for the widespread belief that while Rome burned he was composing on his lyre, as well as a relentless persecutor of Christians.  During his reign he focused most of his attention on diplomacy and trade, and attempted to increase the Empire's cultural capital by building various theaters.