When was Publius Cornelius Tacitus born and where did he live?
Publius Cornelius Tacitus was born in 56 or 57 AD into an equestrian family. His birthplace remains unknown though scholars suggest Gallia Narbonensis or northern Italy.
Questions about Tacitus
Short answers, pulled from the story.
What political offices did Publius Cornelius Tacitus hold during his career?
Publius Cornelius Tacitus entered political life as a quaestor in 81 or 82 under Emperor Titus. He advanced to become praetor in 88 and suffect consul in 97 during Nerva's reign.
Which historical works by Publius Cornelius Tacitus survive today?
The Annals covers the period from the death of Augustus in 14 AD to the end of Nero's reign with only parts of books five through twelve surviving. The Histories deals with civil wars of 69 AD continuing to the death of Domitian on the 18th of September 96 with four complete books remaining.
Who are the main figures described in Agricola and Germania by Publius Cornelius Tacitus?
The Agricola recounts the life of Gnaeus Julius Agricola who conquered Britain while the speech by Calgacus asserts Rome ravages and slaughters. The Germania describes Germanic tribes outside the Roman Empire ending with peoples near the Baltic Sea like the Fenni.
How does Publius Cornelius Tacitus style differ from Ciceronian norms?
Publius Cornelius Tacitus wrote Latin that is highly praised yet extremely concise compared to Ciceronian norms. His sentences rarely flow beautifully but always deliver clear points according to Donald R. Dudley.