Tacitus Germania Analysis

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In Tacitus’ Germania, the author reveals different aspects of the Germanic tribes of that time. Tacitus underlines religion, politics, and warfare in his passages. He goes into detail about climate, geography, social structure, the different customs of the Germanic people, and the tribes that make up Germany. Warfare being described to be one of the most important characteristics of the Germanic people, it was the most respectable effort that people of Germany could display. In Tacitus’ Germania the reader can capture an image of how Germany is presented in terms of its bordering territories and its geographical details. According to Tacitus, Rhaetia and Pannonia and the rivers Rhine and Danube separate Germany (Tacitus, Germania, 1). The …show more content…

They show tremendous courage for their tribes, with only being satisfied to demolish the warriors that they face, and protect the ones of their own. When they are not involved in warfare the warriors are lazy and do not show any interest in anything as they leave all the caretaking of their home and fields to the women and the weak (15). As weaponry was made of iron, many warriors only carried spears for the reasons that iron was scarce and they only used a minute amount of metal (6). Spears were easy to maneuver and they could be used for combat fighting up close and from a distance (6). In wars the Germans would try and instill fear into their opponents’ hearts. Barritus was a chant that was used to distract the other army and create panic (3). They would also cover their mouths with their shields to enact a murmur to make their voices sound more distinct (3). The warriors were not intrigued with wearing armor because they had the utmost confidence when going into battle. And as they used their horses to be a strength in battle. The warriors ride them into battle, charging the opposing army in a straight line while keeping balanced and stern (6). The Germans were known for their infantry being supreme. Never did they retreat or cowardly run from the field of battle (6.) They were strong and the bravest of men. Valour was of many importance to the Germans in the field of battle. When battles were …show more content…

They keep quiet not seeking out war but always being ready with weapons in their hands (35). The have respect for the villages around them, they do not steal or create drama but they live in peace. In a sense that they do not think out of aggression (35). The Suebi actually constitute more than half of Germany and are made up of many different tribes with different names (38). Almost like their own nation with special characteristics. With their style being of hair being make-up being composed, it is only meant to sway their enemy in battle. There are many different tribes of the Suebi but the oldest of them are the Semnones (39). Alongside the rive Elbe, the Marcomanni and Quadi have great power and with bravery they were able to drive out the Boii (42). They had kings that were intertwined with Rome and they were in need of assistance when it came to an army rather than financial (42). The behind of the Marcommani and Quadi, lives the Cotini and Osi where they actually did not speak a lick of German and were not considered German

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