Tacitus is universally recognised as ancient Rome's greatest writer of history, and his account of the Roman Empire in the first century AD has been fundamental in shaping the modern perception of Rome and its emperors. This Companion provides a new, up-to-date and authoritative assessment of his work and influence which will be invaluable for students and non-specialists as well as of interest to established scholars in the field. First situating Tacitus within the tradition of Roman historical writing and his own contemporary society, it goes on to analyse each of his individual works and then discuss key topics such as his distinctive authorial voice and his views of history and freedom. It ends by tracing Tacitus' reception, beginning with the transition from manuscript to printed editions, describing his influence on political thought in early modern Europe, and concluding with his significance in the twentieth century.

Accessible introduction to the work and influence of ancient Rome's greatest writer of history.

About the Author
A. J. Woodman is Gildersleeve Professor of Classics at the University of Virginia. He has written widely on Roman history, especially Tacitus, and co-edited, with R. H. Martin, Annals III and IV (1996 and 1989 respectively). He is currently preparing an edition of Agricola with Christine S. Kraus.

Reviews
"...the volume is both one among Tony Woodman's great services to Tacitean studies and a tribute to them." --BMCR



Book Information
ISBN 9780521874601
Author A. J. Woodman
Format Hardback
Page Count 386
Imprint Cambridge University Press
Publisher Cambridge University Press
Weight(grams) 740g
Dimensions(mm) 235mm * 160mm * 23mm