The Annals

Tacitus, Publius Cornelius (c.56–c.120), translated by Kline, A. S. (contact-email)

Tacitus’ Annals set out to cover the history of the Roman Empire from the death of Augustus and the accession of Tiberius to the later part of Nero’s reign. Sadly, large parts of his text are lost including his description of the whole of Caligula’s reign and the early part of that of Claudius, but what remains gives us our most detailed picture of Imperial rule. As Tacitus’ final and most mature work, the Annals exhibit his strong grasp of power politics and his lucid insight into imperial psychology. The deterioration of senatorial freedom and of the moral character of the aristocracy under Tiberius, whose reign starts well but ultimately descends into quasi-tyranny, is well-portrayed, and his detailed portrait of Tiberius is memorable. Tacitus throughout seeks to maintain an objective balance, basing his narrative on solid evidence, and documentary sources, yet also takes the opportunity to express his own views and feelings regarding the abuse of power, the corruption displayed by individuals, and the character faults which undermined Imperial rule, especially in his handling of Nero’s reign.

Author Details

Publius Cornelius Tacitus, born circa 56AD, was a distinguished Roman historian and politician. His exact birthplace is unknown, but he was likely from an equestrian background. There is some speculation regarding a possible connection between Tacitus and the Thrasea Paetus and Caecinii families, although this remains uncertain. It is posited that his father was Cornelius Tacitus, who served as a procurator in Belgica and Germania.

Tacitus is renowned for the “Annals” and “Histories,” which cover Roman history from the death of Augustus in 14AD to the death of Domitian in 96AD. Despite gaps in the texts, they remain crucial sources on this period. His other works include “Dialogus de oratoribus,” a treatise on oratory, “Germania,” an ethnographic study of Germanic tribes, and “Agricola,” a biography of his father-in-law, the Roman general responsible for much of the conquest of Britain.

His personal life is not well-documented, with most information coming from his own writings and those of his friend Pliny the Younger. Tacitus studied rhetoric in Rome, probably under Quintilian, and married Julia Agricola, daughter of the general Agricola, circa AD77 or 78. He began his career under Emperor Vespasian and advanced through the senatorial ranks, eventually serving as consul in AD97. He is known to have been a skilled orator and lawyer.

Tacitus’s writing is characterised by dense prose and a focus on the psychology of power politics. His works offer critical insights into Roman political life, and the dynamics of the empire. He is regarded as one of the greatest Roman historians, and his works have significantly influenced our understanding of Roman history. Tacitus died circa 120AD.

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Kline, A. S.

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