CLLA 405(S) The Roman Historians: Livy and Tacitus

Livy's History of Rome (re)constructs the origins of Roman practices, values, and institutions as it describes the growth of the Roman state and empire from mythical through historical times. However this presentation of the Roman past is strikingly `present' as we see reflected in it the profound influence of the Augustan era during which Livy wrote. We can see an analogous relationship between the historian's present and his formal focus on the past in Tacitus' Annals, for as Tacitus records and interprets the history of the Julio-Claudian emperors, he presents his vision of the causes and development of the ills of his own day. However the historians differ in many significant ways as well and thus are two unique examples of Roman historiography of the early empire. In this course we will read extensive selections from the works of each and will explore their tone, style, methods, goals, and historical scope. As we analyze their historical, historiographical, and narrative issues, we will come to appreciate not only the richness of each author's works, but also the power of Roman history and self-image to communicate to us across the centuries. Evaluation will be based on class preparation and participation, an oral presentation, one medium-length paper, a midterm, and a final exam. Prerequisite: Latin 201 or permission of the instructor.

Hour:  CHRISTENSEN