Spare, readable translation of one of the classics which I find most interesting—untwisting Tacitus' motivations for writing has been causing scholars to spill gallons of ink for years. A quick read, and well worth it if you're thinking of dipping your toes into this area of scholarship. (The notes at the front of this edition (Penguin Classics) are a little older, though, if I remember them aright, so you might want to treat them with caution.) ( )

An easy to read translation. The 'Agricola' is a hagiography of Tacitus' father-in-law. The details of Agricola's operations are often scant (though a number have had light thrown on them by archaeological evidence) but in a sense are only needed to show his subject in a good light.

The 'Germania' is a description of the peoples living beyond the Rhine-Danube frontiers. His descriptions are generally though to be accurate if sometimes exaggerated. His purpose is to contrast the 'virtue' of the Germans with the 'debauchery' of the over-civilised Romans.

He concludes wit the hope that Rome remain fortunate with their enemies staying divided. In a sense Tacitus was prophetic. It has been argued (for example by Peter Heather) that the collapse of the West in the 5th century was in part due to the greater sophistication and unity of the German confederations, which was a result of long contact with Rome. ( )

I love this book. Then again I'm a fan of Tacitus, and his lovely barbarians.

Tacitus' actual purpose in writing this book is open for debate. Some historians view his presentation of the Germanic bar-bar's (barbarians) as idealistic and purposefully so as they claim Tacitus' was trying to point out how decadent Romans were in comparison. Others historians, however, tend to view his observations as having more merit and accuracy. I fall somewhere in between, but in any case, there is little reason to believe that the author had any personal experience with the German tribes; although it is entirely likely that he had plenty of contact with those who did.

What you will find in the narrative itself, is some very readable prose that is well translated. It's a short book and well worth the quick read if this is an area of interest. And though suspicious, almost all current researchers in this area -- EA Thompson, Goffart, etc. -- nod their heads in Tacitus' direction.

Pam T. ( )

An enjoyable, easy read. If you are interested in history of the Roman Empire or ancient Europe, this should definitely be on your list. ( )