CARNELLIUS TACITUS:
He was a greatest and last historian of the classical age of Romans. He began his career with the “Life of Agriola” – an account of Roman war in Britain and the life of Britain under Romans and the administration of Agricola. His other works were ‘Dialogues of an Orator’, ‘Germania’, ‘Aannals and Historiae’. In the book of ‘Dialogues of an Orator’, he gave importance to speeches. ‘Germania’ deals with manners and beliefs of ancient Germans. ‘Annalas’ deals with the history of Julian dynasty.
CHARATER:
His works were noted for analytical skill. His language is worth reading but one of the hardest in Latin. His mastery of expression, richness in details in details and depiction are notable.
CRITICISM:
- He referred to oral declarations, rumors and even gossips as a source of information.
- He also used written accounts but used it as it is without much criticism.
- As a staunch Republican he believed that liberty could only be achieved only through republican constitution.
- He missed the achievement of Rome, which tells he was more an artist than a thinker.
- He mentions about the events but did not attempt to study the complexity of those events.
*****
Character of Historical Writing in Rome
Keywords:
Porcius Cato, Julius Ceaser, Commentaries, Titus Livy, Tacitus, Agustus Caeser, Life of Agriola, Dialogues of an Orator’, ‘Germania’, ‘Aannals and Historiae’, Periplus of Erythrean Sea,
