Research Paper On Tacitus Germania

561 Words2 Pages

Tacitus was a Roman historian who lived during the first century C.E. and isrenowned today among contemporary historians for his comprehensive writings onsubjects varying from Roman Emperors to Oratory dialogue. Tacitus is credited withwriting some of the oldest recorded descriptions of the Germanic peoples of antiquitywho lived along the northern frontier of the Roman Empire, adjacent to the province of Gallia. Tacitus’ written work
Germania
encompasses his own understanding of theGermanic peoples and is undoubtedly supplemented by stories and narratives fromindividuals who encountered these peoples themselves.
Germania
itself appears to be anethnographic work, and is undeniably a primary source for its historical period.
Germania
encompasses within it descriptions of various …show more content…

Inother words, Tacitus seems to be suggesting that the Germanic traditions concerningmarriage and matrimonial law could provide an example of ideal ethical conduct for hisown fellow Romans.The topic was obviously Tacitus’ most favoured feature of Germanic tradition ashe gave it high regard, describing it as “a serious matter: no other part of their culture onecould praise more.”
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Tacitus describes how the Germans abide strictly to monogamy,except when, “not because of lust but on account of their distinction, (they) are solicitedwith numerous matches.”
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Further on there is mention of wives, instead of husbands inthe Roman tradition, receiving dowry from their betrothed partner, suggesting thatwomen were highly valued and that men needed to display their eligibility throughwealth.
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Additionally, a bride was expected to share in “her husband’s labours anddangers” and to “dare the same things in peace and the same things in war,” suggestingthat both man and wife shared deep bonds of trust and fellowship.

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