cla160 rd - Agricola

Tacitus: Agricola and Germany

• Translation: Done by Anthony R. Birley in 1999 for the Oxford World's Classics series.

• The text focuses on Gnaeus Julius Agricola, a Roman general and governor of Britain, and his rule over Britain and Germany.

Preface: Contextual Background

• There was a tradition of documenting great men's deeds and virtues for posterity, emphasizing the importance of character.

• The acknowledgment of ignorance and jealousy in society today, thwarting openness to historical achievements.

• The past afforded more freedom of expression, while current times see censorship and punitive actions against those who share eulogies (example: Rusticus' and Thrasea's eulogies deemed offenses).

• Agricola's biography is partly a response to contemporary censoring of historical virtue.

Life of Agricola: Early Years

• Origin: Agricola from Forum Julii (Fréjus) with a noble lineage; both grandfathers were procurators.

• Education: His upbringing fostered a strong foundation in liberal arts under the care of his mother, Julia Procilla.

• Military Training: learned from Suetonius Paulinus, displaying diligence, integrity, and resistant to indulgence.

Agricola's Career Highlights

• Military Success: Demonstrated a commitment to military service over personal gain during and after his time in Britain.

• Political Journey: Successfully navigated through political offices from quaestor to proconsul while maintaining integrity amidst corruption.

• After tragedy (the murder of his mother), he aligned himself with Vespasian during the civil war.

• Governorship of Britain: He took command and successfully stabilized Britain, enhancing Roman integration and administrative management.

Governance and Policies in Britain

• Military Campaigns: Agricola's campaigns were characterized by a focus on discipline, strategic military engagements, and humane governance.

• Advocated for public works to improve conditions for the Britons amidst military pressures, implementing reforms that improved tax systems and reduced abuse.

• Encouraged Roman culture and education among Britons, converting them gradually toward Roman customs while asserting military control without severe punishment.

The Final Campaigns and Recall of Agricola

• Agricola's military campaigns in Britain peaked with a significant victory, yet his success led to envy in Rome, particularly from Emperor Domitian.

• His administration resulted in a power shift in how Britain was perceived and ruled by Rome, yet this led to his eventual recall to Rome.

• Agricola faced envy and hostility due to his successful leadership and was ultimately left to retire in modesty while Domitian wrestled with the shadow of his own diminished support.