LATN 106. Tacitus

The seminar will read extensive excerpts from the Annals of Tacitus, usually including at least one complete book. Additional readings from the Histories and the Agricola may also be included. The principal questions addressed will include: Tacitus’ accuracy and objectivity as a historian, the importance of rhetorical techniques on Tacitus’ language and narrative, and the question of his attitude to particular emperors (Augustus, Tiberius, Claudius, Nero, Vespasian, and Domitian). Above all we will consider the question of Tacitus’ ideas about the imperial system of government: to what extent did he think Romans should resist monarchy or tyranny, and to what extent should they adjust their morality to accommodate it?
Humanities.
2 credits.
Fall 2025. Turpin.
Catalog chapter: Classics
Department website: http://www.swarthmore.edu/classics

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