No more vivid account of the stereotype of the wealthy freedman survives from the Roman world than the account of Trimalchio from the Satyricon. The author of the Satyricon, Petronius, worked under the Emperor Nero and was in charge of entertainment. Some scholars believe the portrait of Trimalchio also includes characteristics of Nero. Wild stories seep through about Trimalchio's fantastic wealth. He has estates everywhere, rather like a small country, raising everything he needs all over the world. Most of Trimalchio's guests are other wealthy freedmen, which provides further opportunity for more satire as well as a fascinating portrayal of the unique world of the freedman. In the novel, Trimalchio is hosting a dinner party—and what a party! Before the feast even begins, the guests receive a pedicure from singing slaves. Trimalchio enters late and starts...