Works of Tacitus, Vol. I (2/2) 💖 By Thomas Gordon. FULL Audiobook

Works of Tacitus, Vol. I. By Thomas Gordon FULL Audiobook
The Works of Tacitus, Vol. I, edited and with essays by Thomas Gordon, offers a profound exploration of ancient Rome through the lens of one of its most esteemed historians, Publius Cornelius Tacitus. Let me provide you with a detailed summary:

1. Historical Context:
- Tacitus lived during the 1st century AD and chronicled events from AD 14 to 96.
- His works span thirty volumes, but unfortunately, many have been lost over time.
- The surviving texts include Histories (books 1-5) and Annals (books 1-6 and 11-16).

2. Themes and Philosophy:
- Tacitus grapples with themes of power, morality, and political philosophy.
- He recognizes the need for institutional restraints on power to safeguard liberty.
- His writings emphasize the importance of managing succession and promoting talented leaders.

3. Gordon's Contribution:
- Thomas Gordon, the editor, provides lengthy discourses that contextualize Tacitus's ideas.
- Gordon applies Tacitus's insights to the 18th-century British state.
- He highlights the dangers of dynastic ambitions among emperors and their impact on moral and political life.

4. Key Discourses and Topics:
- Discourse I: Evaluates previous English translations of Tacitus.
- Discourse IIa and IIb: Explores Tacitus's writings and their significance.
- Discourse III: Focuses on Julius Caesar and his dictatorship.
- Discourse IV: Discusses Octavius Caesar (later known as Augustus).
- Discourse V: Contrasts free and arbitrary governments.
- Discourse VI: Examines the old law of treason.
- Discourse VII: Addresses accusations and accusers under the emperors.
- Discourse VIII: Explores the general decline in spirit and adulation accompanying power.
- Discourse IX: Reflects on courts and their functioning.
- Discourse X: Analyzes armies and conquests.

5. Annals (Selected Highlights):
- Book 1: Chronicles the reign of Augustus.
- Book 2: Covers conflicts in Armenia, rebellions, and African campaigns.
- Book 3: Explores the disgrace of Piso, conflicts with the upper classes, and international relations.

6. Tacitus's Legacy:
- Tacitus's works remain invaluable for understanding ancient Rome's political and moral landscape.
- His call for wise leadership and caution against dynastic ambitions resonate across centuries.

In summary, The Works of Tacitus, Vol. I provides a rich tapestry of historical insight, philosophical musings, and timeless wisdom. Gordon's essays bridge the gap between ancient Rome and the challenges faced by his contemporary Britain. 📚🌟

For more details, you can explore the full volume .
More: Tacitus, Vol. I, Thomas Gordon
Audiobook, Roman history, Ancient Rome
Historical writings, Classical literature, Emperor Augustus
Roman Empire, Annals, Histories
Roman politics, Imperial Rome, Latin literature

00:00:00 The Annals Bk. 2: Various Rebellions
00:20:08 The Annals Bk. 2: The African Conflicts
00:46:11 The Annals Bk. 2: The Death of Germanicus
01:24:01 The Annals Bk. 3: The Disgrace of Piso
01:55:43 The Annals Bk. 3: Conflict with the Upper Classes
02:30:50 The Annals Bk. 3: Tiberius Pleads with the Senate
03:00:52 The Annals Bk. 3: International Relations Under Tiberius