Author
Cornelius Tacitus
56-117
Cornelius Tacitus (56-117) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Cornelius Tacitus
The Germany and the Agricola of Tacitus
"The Germany and the Agricola of Tacitus" by Cornelius Tacitus is a historical text composed in the late 1st century AD. This work includes two significant writings by Tacitus: "Germania," which provides a description of the geography and customs of the Germanic tribes, and "Agricola," a biographical account of his father-in-law, Gnaeus Julius Agricola, known for his military campaigns in Britain. The texts reflect on the social structures, traditions, and bravery of the Germans while also portraying Agricola's contributions to Roman rule in Britain, emphasizing themes of virtue and the complexities of imperial governance. At the start of the work, the introduction sets the stage by outlining very little known about Tacitus' personal life, linking it to the historical context in which he wrote. It transitions into the "Germania," describing the geography and characteristics of the Germanic people, emphasizing their varied customs, martial valor, and communal structures. Tacitus details their unique societal norms, warrior culture, and distinct customs, contrasting them with Roman society. He vividly portrays the fierce spirit of the Germanic tribes and hints at the potential threat they pose to the Roman Empire. The portrayal aims to provide insight into a world that, while uncivilized by Roman standards, holds a certain nobility and resilience that commands respect.
Tacitus: The Histories, Volumes I and II
"Tacitus: The Histories, Volumes I and II" by Cornelius Tacitus is a Roman historical chronicle written c. 100–110. This gripping work chronicles the turbulent Year of Four Emperors following Nero's downfall, when Galba, Otho, Vitellius, and Vespasian each seized power in rapid succession. Through dramatic narration and sharp character portraits, Tacitus captures a world of violence, political intrigue, and military chaos. Only the first books survive, revealing how imperial power became dependent on legionary support rather than senatorial authority—a lesson written thirty years after these devastating events.
Tacitus on Germany
"Tacitus on Germany" by Cornelius Tacitus is an ethnographic work written around 98 AD. This Roman historian's account explores the lands, laws, and customs of Germanic peoples living beyond the Roman Empire's borders. Tacitus describes their physical characteristics, tribal divisions, government systems, and social practices, including their treatment of women and approach to marriage. Though he never visited Germania himself, Tacitus compiled information from various sources to create this portrait of a distinct people. The work remained largely forgotten until its rediscovery in 1425, profoundly influencing later German scholarship and identity.
The Reign of Tiberius, Out of the First Six Annals of Tacitus; With His Account of Germany, and Life of Agricola
"The Reign of Tiberius, Out of the First Six Annals of Tacitus" by Cornelius Tacitus is a historical work written in the early 2nd century AD. This section covers the Roman Empire under Emperor Tiberius from AD 14 to 37, drawn from Tacitus' larger masterwork documenting imperial rule. Through careful portraiture and year-by-year narrative, Tacitus reveals both the peace Augustus secured and the dark reality of life under the Caesars, painting Tiberius as a once-great man transformed into a tyrant who ruled through fear.
Germania and Agricola
"Germania and Agricola" by Cornelius Tacitus is a historical account from the early second century. This work presents a detailed examination of the Germanic tribes and a biography of the Roman general Agricola, who contributed significantly to the Roman conquest of Britain. The texts explore themes of cultural contrasts between the Germans and Romans, the nature of leadership, and insights into the political landscape of the time. The opening portion provides a comprehensive introduction to the context and significance of Tacitus's work. It discusses the motivations behind the writings, emphasizes the educational purpose of the edition, and reflects on Tacitus's unique literary style. It introduces the structure of the Germania, which outlines the geography, customs, and behaviors of the Germanic peoples, while also setting the stage for the biography of Agricola, whose military and administrative achievements are to be chronicled. This preface gives readers a glimpse of the scholarly approach taken in this edition, aiming to enhance understanding of both Tacitus's historical insights and stylistic nuances.
A Dialogue Concerning Oratory, or the Causes of Corrupt Eloquence The Works of Cornelius Tacitus, Volume 8 (of 8); With an Essay on His Life and Genius, Notes, Supplements
"A Dialogue Concerning Oratory, or the Causes of Corrupt Eloquence" by Tacitus is a dialogue published around 102 AD. Set in the 70s AD, four historical figures debate a provocative question: why has Roman oratory declined from its former glory? They examine education, rhetoric, and culture before reaching a startling conclusion about the relationship between eloquence and political freedom. The work suggests that great oratory flourished in the chaos of the Republic but became obsolete under the Empire's orderly peace.
Die Germania
"Die Germania" by Cornelius Tacitus is an ethnographic work written around 98 CE about the Germanic peoples. This short text describes the geography of Germania and the customs of its inhabitants, from the Rhine to the Vistula. Tacitus portrays the Germans as hardy, uncorrupted, and fiercely free, praising their family values and courage while noting their weaknesses, including laziness and excessive drinking. The work examines their warfare, religion, governance, and daily life, offering a Roman perspective on these northern neighbors.
Index of the Project Gutenberg Works of Cornelius Tacitus
"Index of the Project Gutenberg Works of Cornelius Tacitus" by Cornelius Tacitus is a compilation of historical writings penned during the early 2nd century AD. This work encompasses various historical accounts, essays, and treatises that delve into Roman history, customs, and oratory. The primary focus of the book is to provide readers with structured access to the different works by Tacitus, who is widely recognized as one of the greatest Roman historians. The book includes notable texts such as "The Germany and the Agricola," which examine the geography and culture of Germanic tribes, as well as the life of the Roman general Agricola. In addition, it contains "The Reign of Tiberius," offering insights into the political dynamics of Tacitus's time. Other parts discuss oratory and its evolution from ancient to modern times, illuminating the challenges and changes within rhetorical practices. Overall, the index serves as a valuable resource for those looking to explore the comprehensive historical landscape painted by Tacitus, along with his reflections on governance, society, and eloquence.
La Germanie Texte latin avec introduction, notes et lexique des noms propres
"La Germanie" by Cornelius Tacitus is an ethnographic work written around 98 AD. Originally titled "On the Origin and Situation of the Germans," it describes the lands, laws, and customs of Germanic peoples living beyond Rome's borders. Tacitus details their physical characteristics, government structures, gender roles, and tribal divisions, drawing on secondhand sources since he never traveled to Germania himself. This minor work was largely forgotten until its rediscovery in 1425 sparked intense interest among German humanists.
Agricola
"Agricola" by Cornelius Tacitus is a biographical work written around AD 98. This account chronicles the life of Tacitus's father-in-law, Gnaeus Julius Agricola, a distinguished Roman general who governed Britain during a turbulent period of conquest and rebellion. Beyond personal biography, the work explores ancient Britain's geography and peoples while subtly critiquing imperial tyranny and the loss of Roman freedoms under despotic rule. Through military campaigns, political maneuvering, and the famous Battle of Mons Graupius, Tacitus preserves his subject's legacy while questioning the price of empire.
Germania
"Germania" by Cornelius Tacitus is a historical and ethnographic work written around 98 AD. It describes the lands, laws, and customs of Germanic peoples living beyond the Roman Empire's borders. Tacitus examines their physical characteristics, government structures, gender roles, and tribal divisions, drawing from secondhand sources since he never visited the region himself. Rediscovered in 1425, this work profoundly influenced German humanism and later nationalist movements, shaping how Germanic antiquity was understood and interpreted throughout European history.
Moeurs des anciens Germains
"Moeurs des anciens Germains" by Cornelius Tacitus is an ethnographic work written around 98 AD. This Roman historian's account explores the lands, customs, and peoples of Germania beyond the Empire's borders. Tacitus describes Germanic physical traits, tribal divisions, leadership practices, and social customs—including their treatment of women and marriage. Drawing on secondhand sources, he paints a portrait of a distinct northern people. Rediscovered in 1425, this minor work profoundly influenced German nationalism and scholarship for centuries, shaping how Europeans understood their ancient past.