Histories by Tacitus -

Histories by Tacitus ?

The Histories by Tacitus is a significant work of Roman historiography, written by the historian Publius Cornelius Tacitus in the late 1st and early 2nd centuries CE. The Histories originally covered the dramatic and turbulent period in Roman history from 69 CE (the Year of the Four Emperors) to the death of Domitian in 96 CE. Unfortunately, only portions of the work survive today, specifically the account of the events of 69 and early 70 CE.

Key Aspects of the Histories:

Focus of the Surviving Books:
- The existing text starts in 69 CE, a chaotic year that saw the rapid succession of four emperors: Galba, Otho, Vitellius, and Vespasian.
- The narrative covers the civil wars, the struggle for imperial power, and the rise of the Flavian dynasty under Vespasian.
- It also includes the early stages of Vespasian’s consolidation of power and military campaigns, such as those in Judea and Germany.
Lost Books:
- Tacitus had originally intended the Histories to cover events up to the death of Domitian in 96 CE.
- The extant text ends abruptly in 70 CE, leaving much of the narrative incomplete.
Style and Perspective:
- Tacitus is known for his concise and sometimes cynical style, characterized by his sharp insights into human behavior and political corruption.
- He is critical of the excesses of emperors and the moral decline of Rome, emphasizing the destructive effects of autocratic rule and unchecked ambition.
Historical Value:
- The Histories is one of the main sources for understanding the political and military events of the early Roman Empire.
- Tacitus provides detailed accounts of the battles, political intrigues, and shifting loyalties that defined the era.
Themes:
- Political corruption and moral decay.
- The instability of imperial power.
- The role of the military in determining the fate of emperors.
- The interplay of fate and individual agency in historical events.

Legacy:

The Histories remains a cornerstone of Roman historical literature, alongside Tacitus’ later work, the Annals, which covers the earlier reigns of Tiberius, Caligula, Claudius, and Nero. Tacitus’ writings are invaluable for their critical approach and their vivid portrayal of one of the most tumultuous periods in Roman history.

Would you like to explore a specific aspect of the Histories or Tacitus’ works in general?

What is Histories by Tacitus ?

The Histories by Tacitus is an ancient Roman historical work written by Publius Cornelius Tacitus, one of Rome’s greatest historians, in the late 1st or early 2nd century CE. This work narrates the dramatic events that occurred during the Roman Empire after the death of Emperor Nero in 68 CE, focusing on the Year of the Four Emperors (69 CE) and the subsequent rise of the Flavian dynasty.

Overview:

Original Scope: The Histories was intended to cover Roman history from the civil wars of 69 CE to the death of Emperor Domitian in 96 CE.
Surviving Content: Only the first four books and part of the fifth book survive, covering events from 69 to 70 CE.
- The narrative begins with Emperor Galba’s rise and fall, the brief reigns of Otho and Vitellius, and ends with the ascension of Vespasian, the founder of the Flavian dynasty.
- It also includes details about the Roman-Jewish War, notably the siege of Jerusalem (70 CE).

Themes and Features:

Civil War and Political Chaos:
- The Histories provides a detailed account of the Year of the Four Emperors, a chaotic period when four different rulers (Galba, Otho, Vitellius, and Vespasian) claimed the imperial throne in rapid succession.
- Tacitus explores the instability of imperial succession and the devastating impact of civil wars on Rome.
Moral and Political Commentary:
- Tacitus is known for his critical and often cynical view of power, ambition, and corruption in Roman politics.
- He laments the moral decline of the Roman elite and the destructive consequences of unchecked autocracy.
Military Focus:
- The narrative gives detailed accounts of battles, mutinies, and military strategies, reflecting the central role of the Roman army in determining the fate of emperors.
Tacitus’ Writing Style:
- His style is concise, dramatic, and vivid, often marked by sharp observations of human nature and political behavior.
- Tacitus is not neutral; his works reflect his disdain for tyranny and his preference for senatorial authority.
Historical Value:
- The Histories is one of the most important primary sources for understanding this turbulent period of Roman history.
- It provides insights into Roman governance, society, military affairs, and the power struggles that shaped the empire.

Influence and Legacy:

Tacitus’ Histories, alongside his later work, the Annals, is considered a masterpiece of Roman historiography.
His accounts of the Year of the Four Emperors and the rise of the Flavian dynasty remain essential for understanding the transition from the Julio-Claudian dynasty to the Flavian dynasty.

Would you like a deeper exploration of its content, specific events, or Tacitus’ perspective?

Who is required Histories by Tacitus ?

The Histories by Tacitus is primarily required and valuable for the following groups of people:

1. Historians and Scholars

Purpose: To study and analyze the political, social, and military history of the Roman Empire during the 1st century CE.
Focus Areas:
- The Year of the Four Emperors (69 CE) and its impact on Roman governance.
- The rise of the Flavian dynasty and its role in stabilizing the empire.
- Military campaigns like the Roman-Jewish War and the siege of Jerusalem.

2. Students of Ancient History

Purpose: To gain insight into the causes and consequences of political instability in ancient Rome.
Applications:
- Understanding the dynamics of Roman politics, civil wars, and succession crises.
- Learning about Tacitus’ historical methods and perspective on morality, power, and leadership.

3. Political Scientists and Philosophers

Purpose: To explore Tacitus’ commentary on governance, power, and morality.
Applications:
- Examining the dangers of autocracy and the relationship between the military and political authority.
- Drawing lessons about the nature of leadership and the consequences of political corruption.

4. Military Historians and Strategists

Purpose: To study Roman military operations and the role of legions in shaping the empire’s history.
Applications:
- Analyzing battlefield tactics, logistics, and the mutinies of Roman soldiers.
- Understanding how the army influenced imperial succession during civil wars.

5. Enthusiasts of Roman Literature and Culture

Purpose: To appreciate the literary and rhetorical excellence of Tacitus’ work.
Applications:
- Enjoying Tacitus’ concise and dramatic prose.
- Gaining insights into Roman cultural values and the moral dilemmas of his time.

When is required Histories by Tacitus ?

The Histories by Tacitus is required in various contexts, depending on the purpose and field of interest. Below are key scenarios when it is most relevant:

1. Academic Studies

When studying Ancient Roman History: To understand the political and military events following Emperor Nero’s death in 68 CE, especially the Year of the Four Emperors (69 CE) and the rise of the Flavian dynasty.
When analyzing historiography: To explore Tacitus’ historical methods, literary style, and his views on morality, governance, and leadership.
For classics or literature courses: To study Tacitus’ Latin prose, rhetorical devices, and narrative techniques.

2. Research on Governance and Leadership

When examining the dynamics of political instability: To study the consequences of weak leadership, autocratic rule, and succession crises.
When analyzing military influence on politics: Tacitus’ account reveals how the Roman army played a decisive role in choosing and overthrowing emperors.
For leadership case studies: To evaluate examples of poor leadership (e.g., Vitellius) and strong leadership (e.g., Vespasian) in times of crisis.

3. Military Studies

When researching Roman military history: To understand the operations, mutinies, and strategies of the Roman legions during civil wars and campaigns.
When studying the Roman-Jewish War: The Histories provides valuable insights into the early stages of the conflict, including the siege of Jerusalem.

4. Philosophical and Political Contexts

When reflecting on power and corruption: Tacitus’ critical perspective is relevant in discussions about the dangers of unchecked ambition and the fragility of political systems.
When comparing historical and modern governance: The events in Histories can provide lessons for analyzing modern political transitions and crises.

5. For Enthusiasts of Roman History and Culture

When exploring Roman society and values: Tacitus offers insights into Roman cultural norms, moral decay, and the complexities of imperial governance.
When learning about historical figures: Key figures like Galba, Otho, Vitellius, and Vespasian are vividly portrayed in the Histories.

6. Preparation for Academic or Professional Exams

For students of history and classics: The Histories is often included in curricula for ancient history or classical studies.
For civil services or competitive exams: Understanding Roman history is sometimes required in examinations involving world history or historical analysis.

7. When Discussing Roman Literature

In literary analysis: To examine Tacitus’ influence on later historians and writers.
In cultural studies: To understand how the Roman worldview influenced Tacitus’ writing.

Would you like help understanding specific events or themes from the Histories?

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Where is required Histories by Tacitus ?

The Histories by Tacitus is required in various fields and locations, depending on academic, professional, or cultural interests. Here’s a breakdown of where and why it is needed:

1. Educational Institutions

Universities and Colleges:
- Where: Classics, history, and literature departments worldwide.
- Why: It is a foundational text for courses in ancient Roman history, historiography, and classical literature.
Schools:
- Where: Secondary schools with advanced history or classical studies curricula.
- Why: As part of world history or introductory studies of ancient civilizations.
Specialized History Programs:
- Where: Programs focusing on ancient military history, political systems, or governance.
- Why: To explore the causes and consequences of the Year of the Four Emperors and Rome’s transition from chaos to stability.

2. Libraries and Archives

Public Libraries:
- Where: Cities with robust history or classical studies collections.
- Why: For general readers interested in Roman history or literature.
Research Libraries:
- Where: Institutions like the British Library, the Library of Congress, or university archives.
- Why: For scholars conducting detailed research on Tacitus and his era.

3. Research and Academic Conferences

Historical Conferences:
- Where: Events focusing on ancient Rome, political history, or historiography.
- Why: The Histories serves as a key reference for papers and discussions.
Classical Studies Symposiums:
- Where: Gatherings of scholars specializing in ancient literature.
- Why: To analyze Tacitus’ literary style and influence.

4. Professional Fields

Historians and Writers:
- Where: Historical societies, academic institutions, or freelance projects.
- Why: To use Tacitus’ Histories as a primary source for understanding Roman history and governance.
Political Scientists and Philosophers:
- Where: Think tanks, universities, or research organizations.
- Why: To study themes like power, leadership, and corruption through a historical lens.

5. Museums and Cultural Institutions

Historical Museums:
- Where: Museums focused on Roman history or ancient civilizations, such as the British Museum or the Capitoline Museums in Rome.
- Why: To provide context for exhibits on the Roman Empire or the Year of the Four Emperors.
Cultural Heritage Organizations:
- Where: Organizations preserving classical literature and historical records.
- Why: To use the Histories for public education and exhibitions.

6. Public Discourse and Media

Documentaries and Historical Dramas:
- Where: In media production for programs about the Roman Empire.
- Why: Tacitus’ vivid accounts are often a source for scripts and narration.
Books and Articles:
- Where: Publications on ancient history, leadership, or the fall of empires.
- Why: The Histories provides rich material for interpretation and storytelling.

7. Cultural and Historical Tourism

Rome and Archaeological Sites:
- Where: Locations tied to events in Tacitus’ Histories, such as the Roman Forum, the Colosseum, or Jerusalem.
- Why: Tacitus’ work helps contextualize these places for tourists and historians.

How is required Histories by Tacitus ?

The Histories by Tacitus is a Roman historical chronicle that covers a tumultuous period in Roman history. Written around 100-110 AD, it details the years 69-96 AD, encompassing the Year of the Four Emperors and the subsequent Flavian dynasty. Key Features:

Scope: The complete work likely comprised 12 or 14 books, but only the first four and part of the fifth survive. These cover the year 69 AD and the beginning of Vespasian’s reign.
Content: It vividly portrays the power struggles, civil wars, and political intrigues that marked this era. The surviving portion focuses on the reigns of Galba, Otho, and Vitellius, as well as the rise of Vespasian.
Style: Tacitus is renowned for his concise and dramatic writing style. He offers insightful character portrayals and explores the motivations behind historical events.
Themes: The Histories delves into themes of power, corruption, and the decline of Roman values. It also examines the role of the military in Roman politics and the impact of civil war on society.
Historical Significance: It provides a valuable primary source for understanding this critical period in Roman history. It offers insights into the political and social dynamics of the Roman Empire, as well as the personalities of key figures.

Relevance:

It sheds light on the challenges of imperial succession and the fragility of political stability.
It offers a window into the lives and experiences of people living through these turbulent times.
It raises questions about the nature of power, the abuse of authority, and the consequences of political violence.

Legacy:

The Histories is considered a masterpiece of Roman historical writing.
It has influenced historians and writers for centuries.
It continues to be studied and appreciated for its literary merit and historical significance.

In summary, the Histories by Tacitus is a compelling and insightful account of a critical period in Roman history. Its vivid portrayal of political turmoil, character studies, and exploration of universal themes make it a timeless work of literature and a valuable historical resource.

Case study is Histories by Tacitus ?

Yes, the Histories by Tacitus can be considered a case study in several ways:

1. Political Instability and Power Struggles:

The Year of the Four Emperors (69 AD) is a prime example of how political instability and power vacuums can lead to chaos and civil war. The Histories provides a detailed account of the events, highlighting the ambitions, betrayals, and violence that characterized this period.
The rise of the Flavian dynasty can be seen as a case study in how a new regime establishes itself after a period of turmoil. Tacitus examines the strategies used by Vespasian and his sons to consolidate power and restore order to the Roman Empire.

2. The Nature of Power and Corruption:

Tacitus explores how power can corrupt individuals and institutions. He portrays the emperors and their advisors as driven by ambition, greed, and a lust for power.
The Histories also examines the role of the military in Roman politics, showing how the army could make or break emperors. This is a recurring theme in Roman history and a valuable case study for understanding the dynamics of power in the Roman Empire.

3. The Decline of Roman Values:

Tacitus lamented the decline of traditional Roman values, such as virtue, duty, and public service. He saw the civil wars and political intrigues as evidence of this decline.
The Histories can be seen as a case study in the moral and social consequences of political instability and corruption. Tacitus highlights the breakdown of law and order, the erosion of trust, and the rise of violence and cruelty.

4. Historical Methodology:

Tacitus’ approach to historical writing can be studied as a case study in historical methodology. He used a variety of sources, including official records, eyewitness accounts, and literary works.
He also employed a critical approach to his sources, seeking to uncover the truth behind events. His emphasis on character portrayal and psychological analysis makes the Histories a valuable case study for understanding human behavior in historical contexts.

In conclusion, the Histories by Tacitus offers a rich and complex case study of a critical period in Roman history. It provides insights into political instability, power struggles, corruption, the decline of values, and historical methodology. Its enduring relevance lies in its exploration of timeless themes that continue to resonate with readers today. Sources and related content

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White paper on Histories by Tacitus ?

While there isn’t a formal “white paper” in the traditional business or technical sense on Tacitus’ Histories, we can create one by adapting the concept. A white paper aims to inform readers about a complex issue and present a persuasive argument. Here’s a structure for a white paper on the Histories, focusing on its relevance to understanding political instability:

Title: The Histories by Tacitus: A Timeless Case Study in Political Instability

Abstract:

This white paper examines the Histories by Tacitus as a crucial historical document for understanding the dynamics of political instability. By analyzing the events of 69-96 AD, particularly the Year of the Four Emperors, Tacitus provides insights into the causes, consequences, and patterns of political upheaval that remain relevant today.

1. Introduction:

Briefly introduce Tacitus and his works, emphasizing the Histories.
State the purpose of the white paper: to demonstrate the Histories’ value in understanding political instability.
Outline the scope: focusing on the Year of the Four Emperors and its implications.

2. The Historical Context:

Describe the Roman Empire in the 1st century AD, highlighting existing tensions and power structures.
Explain the events leading to the Year of the Four Emperors (Nero’s death, succession crisis).

3. The Year of the Four Emperors: A Microcosm of Instability:

Detail the reigns of Galba, Otho, Vitellius, and Vespasian, emphasizing the rapid succession and violent power struggles.
Analyze the key factors contributing to instability:
- Lack of clear succession: The absence of established rules for imperial succession led to competition and conflict.
- Military influence: The army’s power to make and break emperors created a volatile political landscape.
- Personal ambitions and rivalries: The emperors and their supporters were driven by personal desires for power and wealth.
- Economic and social factors: Economic hardship and social unrest further fueled instability.

4. Tacitus’ Insights:

Discuss Tacitus’ writing style and his focus on character portrayal and psychological analysis.
Highlight his key observations about the nature of power, corruption, and the decline of Roman values.
Provide examples from the Histories to illustrate these points (e.g., the portrayal of Otho’s desperation or Vitellius’ gluttony).

5. Relevance to Modern Times:

Connect the events described in the Histories to contemporary examples of political instability.
Discuss the enduring themes of power struggles, corruption, and the role of the military in politics.
Emphasize the importance of understanding these dynamics to prevent or mitigate future crises.

6. Conclusion:

Reiterate the Histories’ significance as a case study in political instability.
Summarize the key lessons learned from Tacitus’ analysis.
Suggest further research or reading on the topic.

Key takeaways that a “white paper” might emphasize:

The fragility of political order: Even in a powerful empire like Rome, political stability can be easily disrupted.
The dangers of unchecked power: The Histories serves as a cautionary tale about the corrupting influence of power.
The importance of institutions: Strong institutions and clear rules for succession can help prevent instability.
The human factor: Personal ambitions, rivalries, and emotions play a significant role in political events.

By structuring the information in this way, we create a “white paper” that effectively communicates the enduring relevance of Tacitus’ Histories for understanding political instability across time.Sources and related content

Industrial application of Histories by Tacitus ?

While Tacitus’ Histories is primarily a historical and literary work, its insights into human behavior, organizational dynamics, and the consequences of instability can be surprisingly relevant to modern industries. Here are some potential industrial applications:

1. Leadership and Management Training:

Case studies in leadership: The Histories offers numerous examples of different leadership styles, both effective and ineffective. Analyzing the decisions and actions of figures like Vespasian, Galba, and Otho can provide valuable lessons for modern managers.
Understanding organizational behavior: Tacitus’ work explores how individuals behave within organizations, particularly during times of stress and uncertainty. This can be relevant to understanding team dynamics, conflict resolution, and organizational change in modern workplaces.
Succession planning: The Year of the Four Emperors highlights the dangers of inadequate succession planning. Businesses can learn from this by implementing clear and robust succession plans to ensure smooth transitions in leadership.

2. Risk Management and Crisis Management:

Identifying risk factors: The Histories illustrates how various factors, such as political instability, economic hardship, and social unrest, can contribute to crises. Businesses can use this knowledge to identify potential risks and develop mitigation strategies.
Responding to crises: Tacitus’ account of the civil wars provides insights into how organizations can respond to crises, including communication strategies, decision-making processes, and maintaining stability during turbulent times.
Analyzing systemic failures: The Histories can be used to analyze systemic failures within organizations, such as breakdowns in communication, lack of accountability, and the abuse of power.

3. Strategic Planning and Competitive Analysis:

Understanding competitive dynamics: The power struggles described in the Histories can be seen as a form of competitive analysis. Businesses can learn from this by studying the strategies used by different factions to gain and maintain power.
Adapting to changing environments: The Histories demonstrates the importance of adaptability in the face of change. Businesses can learn from this by developing agile strategies that allow them to respond effectively to evolving market conditions.
Long-term perspective: Tacitus’ work encourages a long-term perspective by examining the consequences of short-sighted decisions. Businesses can use this to develop sustainable strategies that consider the long-term impact of their actions.

4. Ethical Considerations in Business:

The corrupting influence of power: Tacitus’ portrayal of corruption and abuse of power is relevant to ethical considerations in business. Businesses can use this to promote ethical behavior and prevent corruption within their organizations.
The importance of integrity: The Histories emphasizes the importance of integrity and moral leadership. Businesses can use this to foster a culture of ethical conduct and accountability.

Examples:

A company undergoing a merger could study the Histories to understand the potential for internal conflicts and power struggles during the integration process.
A business facing a major crisis, such as a product recall or a public relations disaster, could analyze Tacitus’ account of how Roman leaders responded to crises to inform their own response strategy.
A company developing a long-term strategic plan could use the Histories to consider the potential impact of political and economic instability on their business environment.

By drawing parallels between the historical events described by Tacitus and modern business challenges, organizations can gain valuable insights and develop more effective strategies for leadership, risk management, strategic planning, and ethical conduct.

Research and development of Histories by Tacitus ?

You’re asking a very interesting question that goes beyond the typical application of historical texts. “Research and development” in the context of Tacitus’ Histories can be interpreted in a few ways, focusing on how we advance our understanding and utilization of this historical work:

1. Historical Research and Interpretation:

New Source Discoveries: While the text of the Histories is largely established, new archaeological finds, papyri fragments, or even reinterpretations of existing sources can shed new light on the events Tacitus describes. This is akin to “basic research” in science, expanding the fundamental knowledge base.
Historiographical Studies: Analyzing how Tacitus’ work has been interpreted and used throughout history is a form of R&D. This involves studying how different generations and cultures have understood his work, revealing evolving perspectives on history, politics, and human nature.
Interdisciplinary Approaches: Combining historical analysis with other disciplines like sociology, political science, or psychology can lead to new insights. For example, applying modern theories of political behavior or organizational psychology to the events in the Histories can generate fresh interpretations.

2. Application and Adaptation:

Developing New Educational Resources: Creating new translations, commentaries, or educational materials (like interactive websites or digital simulations) can make the Histories more accessible and engaging for modern audiences. This is similar to “product development,” creating new ways to utilize existing knowledge.
Exploring New Applications: As discussed earlier, finding new ways to apply the insights from the Histories to fields like leadership training, risk management, or ethical studies is a form of R&D. This involves identifying potential applications and developing frameworks or methodologies for their implementation.
Comparative Studies: Comparing the events in the Histories with other historical periods or contemporary events can lead to new understandings of recurring patterns and dynamics. This is akin to “applied research,” testing existing knowledge in new contexts.

3. Digital Humanities and Computational Analysis:

Textual Analysis: Using computational tools to analyze the language, style, and structure of the Histories can reveal patterns and insights that might be missed by traditional methods. This can involve things like sentiment analysis, network analysis of characters, or stylistic comparisons with other works.
Data Visualization: Creating visualizations of historical data related to the Histories (e.g., maps of military campaigns, timelines of events, or social networks of key figures) can enhance understanding and facilitate new research questions.
Digital Archives and Databases: Creating comprehensive digital archives of related materials, including manuscripts, translations, commentaries, and secondary sources, can facilitate research and collaboration among scholars.

Examples of R&D in Action:

A research project might use computational analysis to compare Tacitus’ portrayal of different emperors, identifying linguistic patterns associated with positive or negative characterizations.
A team of educators might develop an interactive online game that allows students to experience the events of the Year of the Four Emperors from different perspectives, applying the insights from the Histories in an engaging way.
A business school might conduct a study comparing leadership styles in the Histories with modern leadership theories, developing a new training program based on the findings.

By engaging in these forms of research and development, we can ensure that Tacitus’ Histories remains a living and relevant work, offering valuable insights for understanding the human condition and the dynamics of power in any era

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References

^ Bartlett, Brett (July 2014). “Justin’s Epitome: The unlikely adaptation of Trogus’ world history” (PDF). Histos. 8: 250. Retrieved 16 January 2019.

^ Jump up to:^a ^b Martin, Ronald H. (1981). Tacitus and the Writing of History. pp. 104–105. ISBN 0-520-04427-4.

^ Tacitus, Cornelius (12 June 2008). The Annals: The Reigns of Tiberius, Claudius, and Nero. Translated by Yardley, J. C. Oxford. pp. ii–xxvii. ISBN 978-0-19-282421-9.

Birley 2000, p. 232.
^ “Tacitus”. Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary. Merriam-Webster.
^ Longman, J.C. (2008). Longman Pronunciation Dictionary (3 ed.). Pearson Education ESL. ISBN 978-1405881173.
^ Van Voorst, Robert; Evans, Craig A.; Chilton, Bruce (2000). “Tacitus: The Executed Christ”. In Evans, Craig A.; Chilton, Bruce (eds.). Jesus Outside the New Testament: An Introduction to the Ancient Evidence Studying the Historical Jesus. Grand Rapids, Michigan: Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing. p. 39. ISBN 9780802843685. Retrieved 7 June 2020. Cornelius Tacitus is generally considered the greatest Roman historian […].
^ Compare: Ferguson, Everett (1987). “Literature and language”. Backgrounds of Early Christianity (3 ed.). Grand Rapids, Michigan: William B. Eerdmans Publishing (published 2003). p. 116. ISBN 9780802822215. Retrieved 7 June 2020. The Silver Age produced two outstanding historians. Cornelius Tacitus (c. A.D. 55-120), through his Histories and the Annals, is the major source for the history of the empire in the first century.
^ Brodribb, William Jackson; Godley, Alfred Denis (1911). “Tacitus, Cornelius” . In Chisholm, Hugh (ed.). Encyclopædia Britannica. Vol. 26 (11th ed.). Cambridge University Press. pp. 345–46.
^ OGIS 487, first brought to light in Bulletin de correspondance hellénique, 1890, pp. 621–623 [1]
^ Since he was appointed to the quaestorship during Titus’s short rule (see note below) and twenty-five was the minimum age for the position, the date of his birth can be fixed with some accuracy.
^ See Oliver, 1951, for an analysis of the manuscript from which the name Publius is taken; see also Oliver, 1977, which examines the evidence for each suggested praenomen (the well-known Gaius and Publius, the lesser-known suggestions of Sextus and Quintus) before settling on Publius as the most likely.
^ Oliver, 1977, cites an article by Harold Mattingly in Rivista storica dell’Antichità, 2 (1972) 169–85
^ Syme, 1958, pp. 612–13; Gordon, 1936, pp. 145–46
^ Birley 2000, p. 231–232.
^ Caecina. Strachan stemma.
^ Syme, 1958, pp. 60, 613; Gordon, 1936, pg. 149; Martin, 1981, pg. 26
^ Syme, 1958, pg. 63
^ Michael Grant in Introduction to Tacitus, The Annals of Imperial Rome, p. xvii; Herbert W. Benario in Introduction to Tacitus, Germany, pg. 1.
^ Syme, 1958, pp. 614–16
^ Syme, 1958, pp. 616–19
^ Syme, 1958, pg. 619; Gordon, 1936, pg. 145
^ Gordon, 1936, pp. 150–51; Syme, 1958, pp. 621–24
^ The fact that he studied rhetoric and law is known from the Dialogus, ch. 2; see also Martin, 1981, p. 26; Syme, 1958, pp. 114–115
^ Agricola, 9
^ Pliny, Letters 1.6, 9.10; Benario, 1975, pp. 15, 17; Syme, 1958, pp. 541–42
^ Syme, 1958, pg. 63; Martin, 1981, pp. 26–27
^ (1.1)
^ He states his debt to Titus in his Histories (1.1); since Titus ruled only briefly, these are the only years possible.
^ In the Annals (11.11), he mentions that, as praetor, he assisted in the Secular Games held by Domitian, which can be precisely dated to 88. See Syme, 1958, pg. 65; Martin, 1981, pg. 27; Benario in his Introduction to Tacitus, Germany, p. 1.
^ The Agricola (45.5) indicates that Tacitus and his wife were absent at the time of Julius Agricola’s death in 93. For his occupation during this time see Syme, 1958, p. 68; Benario, 1975, p. 13; Dudley, 1968, pp. 15–16; Martin, 1981, p. 28; Mellor, 1993, p. 8
^ For the effects on Tacitus of this experience see Dudley, 1968, pg. 14; Mellor, 1993, pp. 8–9
^ Pliny, Letters, 2.1 (English); Benario in his Introduction to Tacitus, Germany, pp. 1–2.
^ In the Agricola (3), he announces what was probably his first major project: the Histories. See Dudley, 1968, pg. 16
^ Pliny, Letters 2.11
^ Hazel, J. (2002). Who’s who in the Roman World. Routledge who’s who series. Routledge. p. 297. ISBN 978-0-415-29162-0. Retrieved 28 August 2018. Seniority brought him the governorship of the province of Asia as proconsul in 112–113.
^ Grant in his Introduction to Tacitus, Annals, pg. xvii; Benario in his Introduction to Tacitus, Germania, pg. 2. Annals, 2.61, says that the Roman Empire “now extends to the Red Sea“. If by mare rubrum he means the Persian Gulf, the passage must have been written after Trajan’s eastern conquests in 116, but before Hadrian abandoned the new territories in 117. But this may only indicate the date of publication for the first books of the Annals; Tacitus could have lived well into Hadrian’s reign, and there is no reason to suppose that he did not. See Dudley, 1968, pg. 17; Mellor, 1993, pg. 9; Mendell, 1957, pg. 7; Syme, 1958, pg. 473; against this traditional interpretation, e.g., Goodyear, 1981, pp. 387–93.
^ Augustan History, Tacitus X. Scholarly opinion on this story is that it is either “a confused and worthless rumor” (Mendell, 1957, pg. 4) or “pure fiction” (Syme, 1958, p. 796). Sidonius Apollinaris reports (Letters, 4.14; cited in Syme, 1958, pg. 796) that Polemius, a 5th-century Gallo-Roman aristocrat, is descended from Tacitus — but this claim, says Syme (ibid.), is of little value.
^ Jerome‘s commentary on the Book of Zechariah (14.1, 2; quoted in Mendell, 1957, p. 228) says that Tacitus’s history was extant triginta voluminibus, “in thirty volumes”.
^ Thunberg, Carl L. (2012). Att tolka Svitjod [To interpret Svitjod]. University of Gothenburg. p. 44. ISBN 978-91-981859-4-2.
^ Donald R. Dudley. Introduction to: The Annals of Tacitus. NY: Mentor Book, 1966. p. xiv: “No other writer of Latin prose—not even Cicero—deploys so effectively the full resources of the language.”
^ The Annals (Tacitus)/Book 1#1 Translation based on Alfred John Church and William Jackson Brodribb (1876). Wikisource, 15 April 2012.
^ Ostler 2007, pp. 98–99 where the quoted example is used; Further quotes from the book: “…some writers—notably the perverse genius Tacitus—delighted in disappointing the expectations raised by periodic theory.” – “this monkeying with hard-won stylistic norms…only makes sense if readers knew the rules that Tacitus was breaking.”
^ John Taylor. Tacitus and the Boudican Revolt. Dublin: Camvlos, 1998. p. 1 ff

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