IDENTIFICATIONS

Gaius (Caligula)*
Claudius*
Nero*
Sejanus
Messalina*
Agrippina the Younger*
Seneca the Younger*
Burrus
Octavia
Poppaea Sabina
Britannicus

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

How does Tacitus describe the character of Tiberius? Do the events related support his description?

How does Tacitus relate the death of Tiberius. How does he treat him in the summary he gives of his life?

How does Tacitus describe Claudius in general? What are Claudius reactions to the tragic domestic events of his reign. Who, according to Tacitus, is really in charge?

Who are the major power brokers after Claudius' death? How do they vie for control of Nero? Who wins, who dies (and how)?

Tacitus famously claimed to have written his history sine ira et studio - without anger or prejudice. What do you think of this claim?

What, in Tacitus' views, were the issues rushing Rome to headlong ruin? What solution (if any) does Tacitus offer?