3. Latin text with study questions and vocabulary aid
- Page ID
- 113067
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3. Latin text with study questions and vocabulary aid
1 Exim Claudius Timarchus Cretensis reus agitur, ceteris criminibus ut solent praevalidi provincialium et opibus nimiis ad iniurias minorum elati: una vox eius usque ad contumeliam senatus penetraverat, quod dictitasset in sua potestate situm an pro consulibus qui Cretam obtinuissent grates agerentur. 2 quam occasionem Paetus Thrasea ad bonum publicum vertens, postquam de reo censuerat provincia Creta depellendum, haec addidit: 3 ‘usu probatum est, patres conscripti, leges egregias, exempla honesta apud bonos ex delictis aliorum gigni. sic oratorum licentia Cinciam rogationem, candidatorum ambitus Iulias leges, magistratuum avaritia Calpurnia scita pepererunt; nam culpa quam poena tempore prior, emendari quam peccare posterius est. 4 ergo adversus novam provincialium superbiam dignum fide constantiaque Romana capiamus consilium, quo tutelae sociorum nihil derogetur, nobis opinio decedat, qualis quisque habeatur, alibi quam in civium iudicio esse.
20.1:
- What type of genitive is provincialium?
- Why is dictitasset in the subjunctive?
- Parse grates.
- The sentence contrasts (i) ceteris criminibus with una vox and (ii) ad iniuriam minorum with usque ad contumeliam senatus: what do these contrasts tell us about how Tacitus viewed the attitude of the senate towards provincial administration?
20.2:
- Explain the syntax of depellendum.
- What type of ablative is provincia Creta?
- Who is Paetus Thrasea? What do his names mean? Where else in the Annals does Tacitus mention him?
20.3:
- What are the legislative measures, which Thrasea refers to with Cincia rogatio, Iuliae leges, and Calpurnia scita? (And what is the difference between rogatio, leges, and scita?)
- Analyse the design of nam culpa quam poena tempore prior, emendari quam peccare posterius est.
20.4:
- Explain the mood of capiamus.
Stylistic Appreciation: Looking at this chapter and in particular Tacitus’ use of language, consider how he injects a moralising excitement and republican sentiments into his account of the trial of Timarchus.
Discussion Point: What did it take in ancient Rome for a public figure to be counted among ‘the good’ (boni)? What does it take now? Do you agree with Thrasea’s assertion that among good men the delinquencies committed by others will entail excellent laws and precedents of honourable conduct? If so, can you think of examples from recent history as evidence? If not, can you think of counter-examples?
exim |
then |
Cretensis, -e |
Cretan (from Crete) |
reus agor, agi, actus sum |
I stand trial |
praevalidus, -a, -um |
most powerful |
provincialis, -is, m. |
provincial (resident of one of Rome’s provinces) |
minores, -um, m.pl. |
inferiors, lessers |
elatus, -a, -um |
(here) buoyed up, exalted |
contumelia, -ae, f. |
insult |
penetro, -are, -avi, -atum |
I reach |
dictito, -are, -avi, -atum |
I say frequently |
situs, -a, -um |
located, placed |
an |
whether |
proconsul, -ulis, m. |
proconsul (rank of Roman governor) |
Creta, -ae, f. |
Crete |
obtineo, -ere, -ui, -tentum |
(here) I hold, govern |
grates ago, -ere, egi, actum |
I give thanks |
reus, -i, m. |
defendant |
censeo, -ere, -ui, censum |
I propose |
depello, -ere, -puli, -pulsum |
I banish |
usus, -us, m. |
(here) experience |
probo, -are, -avi, -atum |
I prove (here, impersonal passive) |
patres conscripti, m.pl. |
senators (formal mode of address) |
egregius, -a, -um |
excellent |
honestus, -a, -um |
honourable |
delictum, -i, n. |
misdeed |
gigno, -ere, genui, genitum |
I produce |
licentia, -ae, f. |
corruption |
rogatio, -onis, f. |
legal bill |
candidatus, -i, m. |
electoral candidate |
ambitus, -us, m. |
bribery |
magistratus, -us, m. |
magistrate |
avaritia, -ae, f. |
greed |
scitum, -i, n. |
decree |
pario, -ere, peperi, partum |
I bring about, produce |
culpa, -ae, f. |
wrongdoing |
emendo, -are, -avi, -atum |
I reform (here, pass. infin. = ‘being reformed’) |
pecco, -are, -avi, -atum |
I commit an offence |
constantia, -ae, f. |
steadfastness |
tutela, -ae, f. |
protection |
derogo, -are, -avi, -atum |
I remove, subtract from |
opinio, -onis, f. |
idea |
decedo, -ere, -cessi, -cessum |
(here) I disappear, cease to exist |
habeo, -ere, habui, habitum |
(here) I consider, value |
alibi quam |
anywhere other than |
iudicium, -ii, n. |
judgment |
1 Olim quidem non modo praetor aut consul sed privati etiam mittebantur qui provincias viserent et quid de cuiusque obsequio videretur referrent; trepidabantque gentes de aestimatione singulorum: at nunc colimus externos et adulamur, et quo modo ad nutum alicuius grates, ita promptius accusatio decernitur. 2 decernaturque et maneat provincialibus potentiam suam tali modo ostentandi: sed laus falsa et precibus expressa perinde cohibeatur quam malitia, quam crudelitas. 3 plura saepe peccantur, dum demeremur quam dum offendimus. quaedam immo virtutes odio sunt, severitas obstinata, invictus adversum gratiam animus. 4 inde initia magistratuum nostrorum meliora ferme et finis inclinat, dum in modum candidatorum suffragia conquirimus: quae si arceantur, aequabilius atque constantius provinciae regentur. nam ut metu repetundarum infracta avaritia est, ita vetita gratiarum actione ambitio cohibebitur.’
21.1:
- privati: to what does this refer?
- Explain the mood of viserent and referrent.
- Discuss the contrast Thrasea draws between olim and nunc: what has changed?
21.2:
- Explain the mood of decernatur, maneat, and cohibeatur.
- What type of verb is ostento (whence ostentandi)?
- Why does Thrasea regard dishonest praise (laus falsa) as worse than malice (malitia) and cruelty (crudelitas)? Do you agree?
21.3:
- Explain the syntax and analyse the design of severitas obstinata, invictus adversum gratiam animus.
21.4:
- aequabilius atque constantius: the phrase recalls a passage in Sallust (cited in the commentary). Briefly discuss the effect of this literary echo.
- Explain the significance of the moods and tenses of regentur and cohibebitur.
Stylistic Appreciation: Look back over the entirety of Thrasea’s speech (usu … cohibebitur, 20.3 – 21.4). How does Tacitus make this a powerful piece of persuasive oratory?
Discussion Point: Is Thrasea right that some virtues inspire hatred? Can you think of instances when this point has been made, or ought to have been made, to our leaders today? What do you make of Thrasea’s scorn for those who seek popularity ‘like electoral candidates’? What does it tell us about Thrasea? He seems to link the pursuit of popular approval with instability and poor governance: does he have a point? (You could consider this from a modern perspective, or from that of first-century Rome at the head of an empire.)
privatus, -i, m. |
private citizen |
viso, -ere, visi, visum |
I visit |
obsequium, -ii, n. |
obedience, loyalty |
trepido, -are, -avi, -atum (de) |
I tremble (at) |
aestimatio, -onis, f. |
judgment |
singulus, -i, m. |
individual |
colo, -ere, colui, cultum |
I court, pander to |
externus, -i, m. |
foreigner |
adulor, -ari, -atus sum |
I flatter |
nutus, -us, m. |
nod |
grates, -ium f. pl. |
votes of thanks |
ostento, -are, -avi, -atum |
I demonstrate, show off |
prex, precis, f. |
plea, prayer |
exprimo, -ere, -pressi, -pressum |
I exact, squeeze out |
perinde … quam… |
as much as |
cohibeo, -ere, -ui, -itum |
I restrict |
malitia, -ae, f. |
wickedness, malice |
pecco, -are, -avi, -atum |
I commit an offence, do wrong |
demereor, -eri, -itus sum |
I oblige |
immo |
in fact |
severitas, -atis, f. |
strictness |
obstinatus, -a, -um |
stubborn |
gratia, -ae, f. |
(here) favour |
inde |
in consequence |
magistratus, -us, m. |
magistracy, period of office |
ferme |
(here) usually |
inclino, -are, -avi, -atum |
I go down hill |
in modum (+ gen.) |
like, in the manner of |
suffragium, -ii, n. |
vote |
conquiro, -ere, -quisivi, -quisitum |
I seek after |
arceo, -ere, -cui, -ctum |
I keep at bay |
aequabilis, -e |
consistent |
constans, -antis |
steady |
repetundae (sc. pecuniae) |
money or other things that are to be restored |
from repeto |
‘I demand back’ |
infrango, -ere, -fregi, -fractum |
I crush |
avaritia, -ae, f. |
greed |
gratiarum actio, -onis, f. |
vote of thanks |
ambitio, -onis, f. |
currying of favour |
1 Magno adsensu celebrata sententia. non tamen senatus consultum perfici potuit, abnuentibus consulibus ea de re relatum. mox auctore principe sanxere ne quis ad concilium sociorum referret agendas apud senatum pro praetoribus prove consulibus grates, neu quis ea legatione fungeretur. 2 isdem consulibus gymnasium ictu fulminis conflagravit effigiesque in eo Neronis ad informe aes liquefacta. et motu terrae celebre Campaniae oppidum Pompei magna ex parte proruit; defunctaque virgo Vestalis Laelia, in cuius locum Cornelia ex familia Cossorum capta est.
22.1:
- What construction is abnuentibus consulibus?
- With reference to the Introduction, Section 6 (on Thrasea Paetus), consider why the consuls are disinclined to let Thrasea’s proposal be put to the vote.
- What was the concilium sociorum?
- Why is referret in the subjunctive?
22.2:
- isdem consulibus: suggest an idiomatic translation for this phrase.
- gymnasium: what is this, and what connotations does such a building have? (You may wish to include consideration of the etymology of gymnasium in your answer.)
- Try reading out loud effigiesque in eo Neronis ad informe aes liquefacta. What do you think Tacitus’ tone of voice would be like?
- Who were the Cornelii Cossi?
Stylistic Appreciation: How does Tacitus add colour to his account of the end of the year in this little chapter?
Discussion Point: What do you make of the ‘ominous’ destruction of Nero’s Gymnasium and his effigy within? Why does Tacitus include this detail? Does he take this to be a sign of divine judgment? Do you think there is a place for ‘prodigies’ such as this in the writing of history? What are the forces that modern historians appeal to in order to impose meaningful patterns upon (amorphous) historical time?
adsensus, -us, m. |
agreement |
celebro, -are, -avi, -atum |
(here) I praise |
senatus consultum, -i, n. |
decree of the senate |
abnuo, -ere, -nui, -nutum |
I deny |
auctore principe |
(abl. absol.) ‘on the emperor’s authority’ |
sancio, -ire, sanxi, sanctum |
I enact a law (sanxere = sanxerunt) |
(sociorum) concilium, -ii, n. |
(provincial) council |
pro praetor, -oris, m. |
propraetor (rank of provincial governor) |
pro consul, -ulis, m. |
proconsul (rank of provincial governor) |
legatio, -onis, f. |
delegation |
fungor, -i, functus sum (+ abl.) |
I carry out |
gymnasium |
gymnasium |
fulmen, -inis, n. |
lightning |
ictus, -us, m. |
strike |
conflagro, -are, -avi, -atum |
I burst into flames |
effigies, -ei, f. |
statue, effigy |
informis, -e |
shapeless |
aes, aeris, n. |
bronze |
liquefacio, -ere, -feci, -factum |
I melt |
motus terrae, motus terrae, m. |
earthquake |
celeber, -bris, -bre |
populous |
Campania, -ae, f. |
Campania (region of Italy) |
Pompei, -orum, m.pl. |
Pompeii |
magna ex parte |
to a great extent |
proruo, -ere, -rui, -rutum |
I collapse, am demolished |
defungor, -i, -functus sum |
I die |
virgo Vestalis, virginis Vestalis, f. |
Vestal Virgin |
Cossi, -orum, m.pl. |
the Cossi (a Roman family) |
capio, -ere, cepi, captum |
(here) I appoint |
1 Memmio Regulo et Verginio Rufo consulibus natam sibi ex Poppaea filiam Nero ultra mortale gaudium accepit appellavitque Augustam dato et Poppaeae eodem cognomento. locus puerperio colonia Antium fuit, ubi ipse generatus erat. 2 iam senatus uterum Poppaeae commendaverat dis votaque publice susceperat, quae multiplicata exolutaque. et additae supplicationes templumque fecunditatis et certamen ad exemplar Actiacae religionis decretum, utque Fortunarum effigies aureae in solio Capitolini Iovis locarentur, ludicrum circense, ut Iuliae genti apud Bovillas, ita Claudiae Domitiaeque apud Antium ederetur. 3 quae fluxa fuere, quartum intra mensem defuncta infante. rursusque exortae adulationes censentium honorem divae et pulvinar aedemque et sacerdotem. atque ipse ut laetitiae, ita maeroris immodicus egit. 4 adnotatum est, omni senatu Antium sub recentem partum effuso, Thraseam prohibitum immoto animo praenuntiam imminentis caedis contumeliam excepisse. secutam dehinc vocem Caesaris ferunt qua reconciliatum se Thraseae apud Senecam iactaverit ac Senecam Caesari gratulatum: unde gloria egregiis viris et pericula gliscebant.
23.1:
- Who were Memmius Regulus and Verginius Rufus? Discuss the significance of the phrase Memmio Regulo et Verginio Rufo consulibus for the genre in which Tacitus is writing.
- dato et Poppaeae eodem cognomento: what construction is this?
23.2:
- Parse dis.
- Explain what certamen ad exemplar Actiacae religionis refers to.
23.3:
- Explain the syntax of quae and of quartum intra mensem defuncta infante.
- Parse censentium.
23.4:
- State and explain the case of Thraseam.
- apud Senecam iactaverit: why do you think Nero would have wanted to tell Seneca in particular of his mercy towards Thrasea?
- Comment on Tacitus’ choice of the verb gliscebant here.
Stylistic Appreciation: How in this chapter does Tacitus offer us a disturbing snapshot of the behaviour of the princeps and the senators in the reign of Nero?
Discussion Point: ‘O homines ad servitutem paratos!’ (‘Damn these fellows so ready to be slaves!’): so the emperor Tiberius reproached the senators of his time. Does this chapter suggest a similarly slavish senate? What factors in Rome’s history and constitution led the senators to behave as they do in this chapter? Why is Tacitus so scornful of their conduct? Can you think of modern contexts – in your school, in society at large – where you might be able to observe similar forms of behaviour? What are the causes? What the consequences?
ultra (+ acc.) |
beyond |
appello, -are, -avi, -atum |
I call |
cognomentum, -i, n. |
name |
puerperium, -ii, n. |
childbirth |
Antium, -ii, n. |
Antium (modern Anzio, Nero’s birthplace) |
genero, -are, -avi, -atum |
I give birth to, produce |
uterus, -i, m. |
womb |
commendo, -are, -avi, -atum |
I entrust to the protection of |
votum, -i, n. |
vow |
publice |
(here) as a community |
exsolvo, -ere, -solui, -solutum |
I discharge (a vow) |
supplicatio, -onis, f. |
day of thanksgiving |
fecunditas, -atis, f. |
fertility |
ad exemplar + gen. |
based on the model of |
Actiaca religio, -onis, f. |
Festival of Actium |
decerno, -ere, -crevi, -cretum |
I decree |
solium, -ii, n. |
throne |
Capitolinus Iuppiter, Iovis, m. |
Capitoline Jupiter (the greatest cult of Jupiter) |
ludicrum, -i, n. |
show, games |
circensis, -e |
of the circus |
ut … ita… |
as… so… |
Bovillae, -arum, f.pl. |
Bovillae (a town near Rome) |
edo, -ere, edidi, editum |
I put on (games) |
fluxus, -a, -um |
transitory, short-lived |
defungor, -i, -functus sum |
I die |
adulatio, -onis, f. |
flattery |
censeo, -ere, -ui, censum |
I propose |
pulvinar, -aris, n. |
ceremonial couch (for the gods) |
maeror, -oris, m. |
grief |
immodicus, -a, -um |
excessive |
adnoto, -are, -avi, -atum |
I observe (here, impersonal passive) |
sub (+ acc.) |
(here) just after |
partus, -us, m. |
birth |
prohibeo, -ere, -ui, -itum |
I forbid |
praenuntius, -a, -um (+ gen.) |
forshadowing |
imminens, -entis |
impending, imminent |
contumelia, -ae, f. |
affront, insult |
dehinc |
then |
fero, ferre, tuli, latum |
(here) I say |
reconcilio, -are, -avi, -atum (+ dat.) |
I reconcile (to) |
iacto, -are, -avi, -atum |
I boast |
egregius, -a, -um |
illustrious |
glisco, -ere |
I grow greater, swell |
1 C. Laecanio M. Licinio consulibus acriore in dies cupidine adigebatur Nero promiscas scaenas frequentandi: nam adhuc per domum aut hortos cecinerat Iuvenalibus ludis, quos ut parum celebres et tantae voci angustos spernebat. 2 non tamen Romae incipere ausus Neapolim quasi Graecam urbem delegit: inde initium fore ut transgressus in Achaiam insignesque et antiquitus sacras coronas adeptus maiore fama studia civium eliceret. 3 ergo contractum oppidanorum vulgus, et quos e proximis coloniis et municipiis eius rei fama acciverat, quique Caesarem per honorem aut varios usus sectantur, etiam militum manipuli, theatrum Neapolitanorum complent.
33.1:
- What type of ablative is cupidine?
- Parse cecinerat.
33.2:
- Neapolim: briefly explain Nero’s reasoning in selecting this city for his first public performance.
- Explain the syntax of inde initium fore.
33.3:
- What does the vocabulary of oppidanorum vulgus imply about these men?
- What type of verb is sectantur?
Stylistic Appreciation: How does Tacitus’ syntax and language paint an intriguing picture of the emperor and his followers in this chapter?
Discussion Point: The 2006 BBC series Ancient Rome: Rise and Fall of an Empire claimed that aristocratic Romans’ outrage at an emperor performing on stage would be comparable to what would be felt today if the Queen became a pole-dancer. What merit is there in this comparison? What Roman prejudices emerge in this chapter? Would Tacitus’ distaste for Nero’s theatrical tendencies have been universally shared?
in dies |
day by day |
cupido, -inis, f. |
desire |
adigo, -ere, -egi, -actum |
I drive on |
promiscus, -a, -um |
public |
scaena, -ae, f. |
stage |
frequento, -are, -avi, -atum |
I appear frequently |
Iuvenales ludi, -ium -orum, m.pl. |
the Juvenile Games |
ut |
(here) as |
parum |
insufficiently |
celeber, -bris, -bre |
well-attended |
angustus, -a, -um |
limited |
Neapolis (Gk acc. -im), f. |
Neapolis (Naples) |
quasi |
as it were |
deligo, -ere, -legi, -lectum |
I choose |
Achaia, -ae, f. |
Achaea (Roman province of mainland Greece) |
insignis, -e |
famous |
antiquitus |
from of old, long-… |
corona, -ae, f. |
garland |
studium, -ii, n. |
enthusiasm |
elicio, -ere, -licui, -licitum |
I win, elicit |
contraho, -ere, -traxi, -tractum |
I assemble |
oppidanus, -i, m. |
townsman |
municipium, -ii, n. |
town |
accio, -ire, accivi, accitum |
I summon |
usus, -us, m. |
(here) duty, function |
sector, -ari, -atus sum |
I follow in the train of |
manipulus, -i, m. |
a maniple, a company (military unit) |
Neapolitani, -orum, m.pl. |
Neapolitans, citizens of Neapolis |
compleo, -ere, -plevi, -pletum |
I fill |
1 Illic, plerique ut arbitrabantur, triste, ut ipse, providum potius et secundis numinibus evenit: nam egresso qui adfuerat populo vacuum et sine ullius noxa theatrum conlapsum est. ergo per compositos cantus grates dis atque ipsam recentis casus fortunam celebrans petiturusque maris Hadriae traiectus apud Beneventum interim consedit, ubi gladiatorium munus a Vatinio celebre edebatur. 2 Vatinius inter foedissima eius aulae ostenta fuit, sutrinae tabernae alumnus, corpore detorto, facetiis scurrilibus; primo in contumelias adsumptus, dehinc optimi cuiusque criminatione eo usque valuit ut gratia pecunia vi nocendi etiam malos praemineret.
34.1:
- State and explain the case of secundis numinibus.
- Parse casus.
- What is striking about the phrase maris Hadriae?
- What does ‘Beneventum’ mean and how does Tacitus play with the name?
34.2:
- What type of ablative is corpore?
- What type of clause is ut introducing here?
- What type of ablatives are gratia pecunia vi nocendi? What makes this phrase particularly effective?
Stylistic Appreciation: With reference to Tacitus’ choice and position of words and other stylistic features, discuss how this chapter contributes to an impression of the perversity of Nero and his court.
Discussion Point: Why does Vatinius appal Tacitus so much? What about imperial Rome made figures such as Vatinius possible? Are there any comparable figures in later history or in the present day? What do you make of the link between physical and moral deformity: is physiognomy entirely dead in modern popular thought?
arbitror, -ari, -atus sum |
I think |
providus, -a, -um |
providential, a sign of good omen |
secundus, -a, -um |
favourable |
numen, -inis, n. |
(here) will of the gods |
noxa, -ae, f. |
harm |
theatrum, -i, n. |
theatre |
conlabor, -i, -lapsus sum |
I collapse |
per (+ acc.) |
(here) in, by |
compositus, -a, -um |
written, made up, composed |
cantus, -us, m. |
song |
grates, ium f. pl. |
thanks rendered, thanksgiving |
casus, -us, m. |
accident |
celebro, -are, -avi, -atum |
I celebrate |
petiturus (fut. partic. of peto) |
‘as he was on his way to’ |
traiectus, -us, m. |
crossing |
consido, -ere, -sedi, -sessum |
I rest, sit down |
munus, -eris, n. |
(here) a (public) show |
celeber, -bris, -bre |
crowded, well-attended |
edo, -ere, edidi, editum |
I put on (a show) |
foedus, -a, -um |
foul |
aula, -ae, f. |
court |
ostentum, -i, n. |
marvel, wonder |
sutrina taberna, -ae, f. |
shoemaker’s shop |
alumnus, -a, -um (+ gen.) |
brought up in |
detortus, -a, -um |
deformed |
facetiae, -arum, f.pl. |
sense of humour, wit |
scurrilis, -e |
scurrilous, offensive |
in contumelias |
‘as the butt of insults’ |
adsumo, -ere, -sumpsi, -sumptum |
I take on |
dehinc |
subsequently |
criminatio, -onis, f. |
accusation |
valeo, -ere, -ui |
I am powerful |
gratia, -ae, f. |
influence |
mali, -orum, m.pl. |
‘crooks’ (refers to Nero’s courtiers) |
praemineo, -ere |
I outdo, surpass, am pre-eminent |
1 Eius munus frequentanti Neroni ne inter voluptates quidem a sceleribus cessabatur. isdem quippe illis diebus Torquatus Silanus mori adigitur, quia super Iuniae familiae claritudinem divum Augustum abavum ferebat. 2 iussi accusatores obicere prodigum largitionibus, neque aliam spem quam in rebus novis esse: quin inter libertos habere quos ab epistulis et libellis et rationibus appellet, nomina summae curae et meditamenta. 3 tum intimus quisque libertorum vincti abreptique; et cum damnatio instaret, brachiorum venas Torquatus interscidit; secutaque Neronis oratio ex more, quamvis sontem et defensioni merito diffisum victurum tamen fuisse si clementiam iudicis exspectasset.
35.1:
- Parse frequentanti.
- State and explain the case of isdem … illis diebus and discuss the effect of having two attributes (isdem and illis).
- Briefly outline who Torquatus Silanus is. What reasons does Nero have for wanting him to be killed?
35.2:
- Explain why Torquatus’ employment of the titles ab epistulis, a libellis and a rationibus was dangerous.
- What type of genitive is summae curae?
35.3:
- State and explain the case of defensioni.
- Parse victurum.
- Who is referred to by iudicis? How would you describe Tacitus’ tone here?
Stylistic Appreciation: How does Tacitus make this short passage a terrifying glimpse of Neronian Rome?
Discussion Point: To what extent, if any, do you think Torquatus is to blame for what happened to him? What does this episode reveal about the nature of monarchy in Rome under Nero? Or about monarchy in general? Do any similar episodes spring to mind from ancient or modern history?
munus, -eris, n. |
(here) a (public) show |
frequento, -are, -avi, -atum |
I attend |
voluptas, -atis, f. |
pleasure |
cesso, -are, -avi, -atum |
I cease, rest |
quippe |
for in fact |
adigo, -ere, -egi, -actum |
I force |
super (+ acc.) |
in addition to |
Iunia familia, -ae, f. |
the Junian family (Torquatus’ family) |
claritudo, -inis, f. |
distinction, fame |
divus, -a, -um |
divine |
abavus, -i, m. |
great-great-grandfather |
fero, ferre, tuli, latum |
(here) I claim |
obicio, -ere, -ieci, -iectum |
I bring a charge |
prodigus, -a, -um (sc. esse) |
extravagant |
largitio, -onis, f. |
hand-out, largesse |
res novae, rerum novarum, f.pl. |
revolution |
quin |
moreover that he… (ind. stat. continues) |
ab epistulis |
‘for letters’ – a label designating ‘Private Secretary’ |
(a) libellis |
‘for petitions’ – label designating ‘Petitions Secretary’ |
(a) rationibus |
‘for book-keeping’ – label designating ‘Accountant’ |
appello, -are, -avi, -atum |
I call |
cura, -ae, f. |
(here) administration |
meditamentum, -i, n. |
training exercise; first step on the path to [summa cura] |
intimus, -a, -um |
most intimate |
vincio, -ire, vinxi, vinctum |
I tie up, put in chains |
abripio, -ere, -ripui, -reptum |
I tear away |
damnatio, -onis, f. |
condemnation |
insto, -are, -stiti, -statum |
I am at hand |
brachium, -ii, n. |
arm |
vena, -ae, f. |
vein |
interscindo, -ere, -scidi, -scissum |
I sever |
ex more |
as usual |
quamvis |
although |
sons, sontis |
guilty (referring to Torquatus) |
defensio, -onis, f. |
defence |
merito |
with good reason |
diffisus, -a, -um (+ dat.) |
without confidence in |
vivo, -ere, vixi, victum |
I live (fut. partic. = victurus) |
clementia, -ae, f. |
mercy |
1 Nec multo post omissa in praesens Achaia (causae in incerto fuere) urbem revisit, provincias Orientis, maxime Aegyptum, secretis imaginationibus agitans. dehinc edicto testificatus non longam sui absentiam et cuncta in re publica perinde immota ac prospera fore, super ea profectione adiit Capitolium. 2 illic veneratus deos, cum Vestae quoque templum inisset, repente cunctos per artus tremens, seu numine exterrente, seu facinorum recordatione numquam timore vacuus, deseruit inceptum, cunctas sibi curas amore patriae leviores dictitans. 3 vidisse maestos civium vultus, audire secretas querimonias, quod tantum itineris aditurus esset, cuius ne modicos quidem egressus tolerarent, sueti adversum fortuita aspectu principis refoveri. ergo ut in privatis necessitudinibus proxima pignora praevalerent, ita populum Romanum vim plurimam habere parendumque retinenti. 4 haec atque talia plebi volentia fuere, voluptatum cupidine et, quae praecipua cura est, rei frumentariae angustias, si abesset, metuenti. senatus et primores in incerto erant procul an coram atrocior haberetur: dehinc, quae natura magnis timoribus, deterius credebant quod evenerat.
36.1:
- What type of ablative is multo?
- What is the Capitolium and what is its significance?
36.2:
- illic … inceptum: analyse how the syntax of this sentence helps to articulate its sense.
- What type of ablative is amore?
36.3:
- What are the tenses of the infinitives vidisse … audire? What do you think the change of tense conveys? What construction here necessitates the use of infinitives?
- State and explain the case of itineris.
- What type of gerundive is parendum?
36.4:
- State and explain the mood of haberetur.
Stylistic Appreciation: How does Tacitus create in this chapter a powerfully damning account of the hypocrisy and corruption of both ruler and ruled in the time of Nero?
Discussion Point: In this chapter Tacitus seems to delve deep into Nero’s psychology, reporting his secret hopes and his greatest fears: is this within a historian’s remit? What aspects of the relationship between the emperor and the people does Tacitus want us to dwell on? Do you accept Tacitus’ scathing judgment on the selfish priorities of the plebs?
omitto, -ere, -misi, -missum
I leave aside
in incerto
uncertain, a matter of debate
Oriens, -entis, m.
the East
imaginatio, -onis, f.
imagination
agito, -are, -avi, -atum
I mull over
dehinc
then
edictum, -i, n.
public proclamation
testificor, -ari, -atus sum
I declare
perinde … ac…
as much… as…
super (+ abl.)
about
profectio, -onis, f.
departure
Capitolium, -ii, n.
the Capitoline Hill
veneror, -ari, -atus sum
I worship
artus, -us, m.
limb
tremo, -ere, -ui
I tremble
numen, -inis, n.
divine power, divinity
recordatio, -onis, f.
remembrance
desero, -ere, -ui, -sertum
I abandon
inceptum, -i, n.
purpose, undertaking
levis, -e
(here) unimportant
dictito, -are, -avi, -atum
I say repeatedly
querimonia, -ae, f.
complaint
modicus, -a, -um
(here) brief
egressus, -us, m.
excursion, trip
tolero, -are, -avi, -atum
I bear, endure
suetus, -a, -um
accustomed
fortuita, -orum, n.pl.
misfortunes
aspectus, -us, m.
sight
refoveo, -ere, -fovi, -fotum
I revive
ut … ita…
just as… so…
necessitudo, -inis, f.
relationship
pignus, -oris, n.
tie, bond
praevaleo, -ere, -ui
I have superior force, prevail
volens, -entis
(here) welcome
voluptas, -atis, f.
pleasure
cupido, -inis, f.
desire
praecipuus, -a, -um
greatest, especial
res frumentaria, rei frumentariae, f.
corn supply
angustiae, -arum, f.pl.
shortage
metuo, -ere, -ui, -utum
I fear
primores, -um, m.pl.
leading men
coram (adv.)
among them, close at hand
habeo, -ere, -ui, -itum
(here) I consider
quae natura (sc. est)
as is the usual way
deterius
(here) the worse alternative
1 Ipse quo fidem adquireret nihil usquam perinde laetum sibi, publicis locis struere convivia totaque urbe quasi domo uti. et celeberrimae luxu famaque epulae fuere quas a Tigellino paratas ut exemplum referam, ne saepius eadem prodigentia narranda sit. 2 igitur in stagno Agrippae fabricatus est ratem cui superpositum convivium navium aliarum tractu moveretur. naves auro et ebore distinctae, remigesque exoleti per aetates et scientiam libidinum componebantur. volucres et feras diversis e terris et animalia maris Oceano abusque petiverat. 3 crepidinibus stagni lupanaria adstabant inlustribus feminis completa et contra scorta visebantur nudis corporibus. iam gestus motusque obsceni; et postquam tenebrae incedebant, quantum iuxta nemoris et circumiecta tecta consonare cantu et luminibus clarescere. 4 ipse per licita atque inlicita foedatus nihil flagitii reliquerat quo corruptior ageret, nisi paucos post dies uni ex illo contaminatorum grege (nomen Pythagorae fuit) in modum solemnium coniugiorum denupsisset. inditum imperatori flammeum, missi auspices, dos et genialis torus et faces nuptiales, cuncta denique spectata quae etiam in femina nox operit.
37.1:
- What polarity in Roman thought is Tacitus dwelling on in the first sentence?
- Explain the use of the infinitives struere and uti.
- Who is Tigellinus?
37.2:
- Explain the mood of moveretur.
- How does the phrase Oceano abusque conjure an atmosphere of exoticism?
37.3:
- What is effective in the syntax of iam gestus motusque obsceni?
- What type of genitive is nemoris?
37.4:
- Parse denupsisset. What is significant about Tacitus’ use of this verb?
- Briefly explain the references to: flammeum; auspices; genialis torus. What do you think is the effect of these densely-packed terms from the ritual lexicon of Roman marriage?
Stylistic Appreciation: How does Tacitus generate an overpowering atmosphere of debauchery and decadence in his account of Tigellinus’ banquet?
Discussion Point: Which tenets of traditional Roman morality are broken in this banquet? Is the sexual misconduct of leaders a perennial source of scandal? Does Tacitus’ evident outrage at this banquet come from the same angle as ours at similar stories today? (What, for instance, are the similarities, what the differences between Nero’s orgy and modern ‘bunga bunga’ parties?)
adquiro, -ere, -quisivi, -quisitum
I win
perinde
as
struo, -ere, struxi, structum
I set up
convivium, -ii, n.
banquet
celeber, -bris, -bre (+ abl.)
(here) celebrated for
luxus, -us, m.
luxury
epulae, -arum, f.pl.
banquet
prodigentia, -ae, f.
extravagance, ‘prodigality’
stagnum, -i, n.
lake
fabricor, -ari, -atus sum
I construct
ratis, -is, f.
raft, ship
tractus, -us, m.
towing
ebur, eboris, n.
ivory
distinctus, -a, -um
embellished
remex, -igis, m.
rower
exoletus, -a, -um
degenerate, perverted [ppp of exolesco, -ere]
volucris, -is, m.
bird
fera, -ae, f.
wild beast
abusque (+ abl.)
all the way from
crepido, -inis, f.
bank, quayside
lupanar, -aris, n.
brothel
inlustris, -e
noble
completus, -a, -um (+ abl.)
filled with
scortum, -i, n.
(low-class) prostitute, whore
visor, -i, visus sum
(here) I am on view
gestus, -us, m.
gesture
obscenus, -a, -um
filthy
iuxta
nearby
nemus, -oris, n.
grove
circumiectus, -a, -um
surrounding
consono, -are, -ui
I resound
claresco, -ere, -ui
I shine
(in)licitus, -a, -um
(un)lawful
foedo, -are, -avi, -atum
I defile, pollute
flagitium, -ii, n.
outrage, abomination
corruptus, -a, -um
depraved
contaminatus, -a, -um
perverted (contaminati, m.pl. = perverts)
grex, gregis, m.
herd
in modum (+ gen.)
in the manner of
coniugium, -ii, n.
marriage
denubo, -ere, -psi, -ptum (+ dat.)
I marry (of a woman marrying a man)
indo, -ere, -didi, -ditum
I put on
flammeum, -i, n.
bridal veil
auspex, -icis, m.
soothsayer
dos, dotis, f.
dowry
genialis torus, -i, m.
marriage bed
(nuptialis) fax, facis, f.
(wedding) torch
operio, -ire, operui, opertum
I hide
1 Sequitur clades, forte an dolo principis incertum (nam utrumque auctores prodidere), sed omnibus quae huic urbi per violentiam ignium acciderunt gravior atque atrocior. 2 initium in ea parte circi ortum quae Palatino Caelioque montibus contigua est, ubi per tabernas, quibus id mercimonium inerat quo flamma alitur, simul coeptus ignis et statim validus ac vento citus longitudinem circi corripuit. neque enim domus munimentis saeptae vel templa muris cincta aut quid aliud morae interiacebat. 3 impetu pervagatum incendium plana primum, deinde in edita adsurgens et rursus inferiora populando, antiit remedia velocitate mali et obnoxia urbe artis itineribus hucque et illuc flexis atque enormibus vicis, qualis vetus Roma fuit. 4 ad hoc lamenta paventium feminarum, fessa aetate aut rudis pueritiae, quique sibi quique aliis consulebant, dum trahunt invalidos aut opperiuntur, pars mora, pars festinans, cuncta impediebant. 5 et saepe dum in tergum respectant lateribus aut fronte circumveniebantur, vel si in proxima evaserant, illis quoque igni correptis, etiam quae longinqua crediderant in eodem casu reperiebant. 6 postremo, quid vitarent quid peterent ambigui, complere vias, sterni per agros; quidam amissis omnibus fortunis, diurni quoque victus, alii caritate suorum, quos eripere nequiverant, quamvis patente effugio interiere. 7 nec quisquam defendere audebat, crebris multorum minis restinguere prohibentium, et quia alii palam faces iaciebant atque esse sibi auctorem vociferabantur, sive ut raptus licentius exercerent seu iussu.
38.1:
- Parse prodidere.
- What type of ablative is omnibus?
38.2:
- Comment on Tacitus’ selection of the word mercimonium.
- State and explain the case of morae.
38.3:
- How is Tacitus’ use of verbs in this sentence particularly effective?
38.4:
- State and explain the case of rudis pueritiae.
38.5:
- Parse circumveniebantur.
38.6:
- Explain the mood of vitarent.
38.7:
- What type of dative is sibi?
Stylistic Appreciation: How does Tacitus’ language in this chapter make the outbreak of the Great Fire both dramatic and moving?
Discussion Point: Did Nero start the Fire? If not, is Tacitus right to raise the possibility he did? Does he want us to believe that Nero was behind it? Can you think of contemporary examples of ‘insinuation’ (maybe from journalism)?
prodo, -ere, -didi, -ditum |
(here) I record |
circus, -i, m. |
the Circus Maximus (Rome’s race track) |
contiguus, -a, -um |
adjoining to, next to |
mercimonium, -ii, n. |
wares |
alo, -ere, alui, alitum |
I feed, nourish |
citus, -a, -um |
swift |
longitudo, -inis, f. |
length |
corripio, -ere, -ripui, -reptum |
I seize, tear into |
munimentum, -i, n. |
solid defences |
saeptus, -a, -um |
fenced in |
cinctus, -a, -um |
surrounded |
pervagor, -ari, -atus sum |
I spread over, traverse |
plana, -orum, n.pl. |
the level ground |
edita, -orum, n.pl. |
higher areas |
inferiora, -um, n.pl. |
lower parts |
populor, -ari, -atus sum |
I ravage |
anteeo, -ire, -ivi/ -ii, -itum |
I outstrip |
remedium, -ii, n. |
(here) counter-measures |
velocitas, -atis, f. |
speed |
obnoxius, -a, -um |
vulnerable |
artus, -a, -um |
narrow |
enormis, -e |
irregular |
vicus, -i, m. |
street |
lamentum, -i, n. |
lamentation |
paveo, -ere |
I am frightened |
rudis, -e |
inexperienced, tender |
opperior, -iri, oppertus sum |
I wait for |
evado, -ere, -vasi, -vasum |
I escape |
reperio, -ire, repperi, -rtum |
I find |
longinquus, -a, -um |
remote |
casus, -us, m. |
(here) situation |
ambiguus, -a, -um |
uncertain |
compleo, -ere, -plevi, -pletum |
I fill |
sternor, -i, stratus sum |
I fling myself down |
diurus, -a, -um |
daily |
victus, -us, m. |
food |
caritas, -atis, f. |
love |
nequeo, -ere, -ivi, -itum |
I am unable |
quamvis |
although |
pateo, -ere, -ui |
I lie open |
effugium, -ii, n. |
escape |
intereo, -ire, -ii, -itum |
I die |
mina, -ae, f. |
threat |
restinguo, -ere, -stinxi, -stinctum |
I extinguish |
fax, facis, f. |
torch |
auctor, -oris, m. |
(here) authority |
vociferor, -ari, -atus sum |
I yell |
raptus, -us, m. |
looting |
licenter |
freely |
exerceo, -ere, -ui, -itum |
I carry out |
1 Eo in tempore Nero Antii agens non ante in urbem regressus est quam domui eius, qua Palatium et Maecenatis hortos continuaverat, ignis propinquaret. neque tamen sisti potuit quin et Palatium et domus et cuncta circum haurirentur. 2 sed solacium populo exturbato ac profugo campum Martis ac monumenta Agrippae, hortos quin etiam suos patefecit et subitaria aedificia extruxit quae multitudinem inopem acciperent; subvectaque utensilia ab Ostia et propinquis municipiis pretiumque frumenti minutum usque ad ternos nummos. 3 quae quamquam popularia in inritum cadebant, quia pervaserat rumor ipso tempore flagrantis urbis inisse eum domesticam scaenam et cecinisse Troianum excidium, praesentia mala vetustis cladibus adsimulantem.
39.1:
- What is the case of Antii?
- To what imperial residence does Tacitus refer here? What is the Palatium?
- Parse haurirentur and explain its mood.
39.2:
- How does solacium fit into this sentence grammatically?
- What is Ostia?
39.3:
- State and explain the case of ipso tempore.
- Parse adsimulantem. With which word is it agreeing in this sentence?
Stylistic Appreciation: How does this passage present a fascinating account of Nero’s reaction to the Fire?
Discussion Point: What are we to make of Tacitus’ sudden change of tack in his treatment of Nero? Is your picture of the emperor altered by this chapter? ‘Fiddling while Rome burns’ has become proverbial: is it fair that Nero should be best remembered in this context? What elements of Nero’s response to the fire are recognizable from modern disaster relief? Nero’s practical and popular relief measures failed to alter public perception of the emperor: why? Can you think of other historical or modern examples, in which practical relief measures and political campaigning became intertwined?
ago, -ere, egi, actum |
(here) I stay, spend time |
Palatium, -ii, n. |
Palatine Hill |
Maecenatis horti, -orum, m.pl. |
Gardens of Maecenas |
continuo, -are, -avi, -atum |
I connect |
propinquo, -are, -avi, -atum |
I approach |
sisto, -ere, stiti, statum |
I stop |
haurio, -ire, hausi, haustum |
I consume |
solacium, -ii, n. |
consolation, relief |
exturbatus, -a, -um |
driven out |
profugus, -a, -um |
homeless |
monumentum, -i, n. |
public building |
quin etiam |
and even |
patefacio, -ere, -feci, -factum |
I throw open |
subitarius, -a, -um |
makeshift, emergency |
inops, -opis |
destitute |
extruo, -ere, -xi, -ctum |
I put up |
subveho, -ere, -vexi, -vectum |
I carry up |
utensilia, -ium, n.pl. |
provisions |
Ostia, -ae, f. |
Ostia (Rome’s port) |
propinquus, -a, -um |
neighbouring |
municipium, -ii, n. |
town |
minuo, -ere, -ui, -utum |
I reduce |
usque ad |
right down to |
terni, -ae, -a |
three |
nummus, -i, m. |
sesterce (Roman coin) |
in inritum |
to no effect |
pervado, -ere, -vasi, -vasum |
I spread |
flagro, -are, -avi, -atum |
I blaze |
domesticus, -a, -um |
private, domestic |
scaena, -ae, f. |
stage |
Troianus, -a, -um |
of Troy |
excidium, -ii, n. |
destruction |
vetustus, -a, -um |
ancient |
adsimulo, -are, -avi, -atum |
I compare |
1 Sexto demum die apud imas Esquilias finis incendio factus, prorutis per immensum aedificiis ut continuae violentiae campus et velut vacuum caelum occurreret. necdum positus metus aut redierat plebi spes: rursum grassatus ignis patulis magis urbis locis; eoque strages hominum minor, delubra deum et porticus amoenitati dicatae latius procidere. 2 plusque infamiae id incendium habuit quia praediis Tigellini Aemilianis proruperat videbaturque Nero condendae urbis novae et cognomento suo appellandae gloriam quaerere. quippe in regiones quattuordecim Roma dividitur, quarum quattuor integrae manebant, tres solo tenus deiectae: septem reliquis pauca tectorum vestigia supererant, lacera et semusta.
40.1:
- State and explain the case of aedificiis.
- Why is violentiae in the dative?
- Parse hominum.
40.2:
- What type of genitive is infamiae?
- State and explain the case of solo.
- Parse supererant.
Stylistic Appreciation: Analyse how Tacitus uses language to dramatize the losses in the second fire.
Discussion Point: How do you think Nero’s demolition of buildings to make fire-breaks was received? Considering how Nero was to use the land cleared of houses after the Fire, is it understandable that conspiracy theories arose about his involvement? When have similar theories been popularised in recent times? Is Tacitus right to record this sort of rumour in his Annals?
demum |
at last |
imus, -a, -um |
foot of |
Esquiliae, -arum, f.pl. |
Esquiline Hill |
proruo, -ere, -rui, -rutum |
I demolish |
per immensum |
‘over a vast area’ |
continuus, -a, -um |
relentless |
violentia, -ae, f. |
violence |
velut |
as it were |
occurro, -ere, -curri, -cursum (+ dat.) |
I block, resist |
necdum |
not yet |
pono, -ere, posui, positum |
(here) I lay aside |
grassor, -ari, -atus sum |
I run riot |
patulus, -a, -um |
spacious, open |
strages, -is, f. |
slaughter, destruction |
delubrum, -i, n. |
temple |
porticus, -us, f. |
colonnade |
amoenitas, -atis, f. |
enjoyment |
dicatus, -a, -um (+ dat.) |
dedicated to |
procido, -ere, -cidi, -cisum |
I fall, am destroyed |
infamia, -ae, f. |
scandal |
praedium, -ii, n. |
estate |
Aemilianus, -a, -um |
Aemilian |
prorumpo, -ere, -rupi, -ruptum |
I break out |
condo, -ere, -didi, -ditum |
I found (a city) |
cognomentum, -i, n. |
name |
quippe |
indeed |
regio, -onis, f. |
district |
integer, -ra, -rum |
undamaged |
solum, -i, n. |
ground |
tenus (+ abl.) |
as far as, down to |
vestigium, -ii, n. |
trace |
lacer, -era, -erum |
mangled |
semustus, -a, -um |
half-burnt |
1 Domuum et insularum et templorum quae amissa sunt numerum inire haud promptum fuerit: sed vetustissima religione, quod Servius Tullius Lunae et magna ara fanumque quae praesenti Herculi Arcas Evander sacraverat, aedesque Statoris Iovis vota Romulo Numaeque regia et delubrum Vestae cum Penatibus populi Romani exusta; iam opes tot victoriis quaesitae et Graecarum artium decora, exim monumenta ingeniorum antiqua et incorrupta, ut quamvis in tanta resurgentis urbis pulchritudine multa seniores meminerint quae reparari nequibant. 2 fuere qui adnotarent XIIII Kal. Sextiles principium incendii huius ortum, quo et Senones captam urbem inflammaverint. alii eo usque cura progressi sunt ut totidem annos mensesque et dies inter utraque incendia numerent.
41.1:
- numerum inire haud promptum fuerit: what do you think this suggests about the number of buildings destroyed?
- What kind of ablative is vetustissima religione?
- Pick out and briefly comment on the significance of two of the sacred sites mentioned by Tacitus.
41.2:
- Explain the mood of adnotarent.
- What type of clause is introduced by eo usque … ut…?
Stylistic Appreciation: How does Tacitus’ use of language in this passage invest his account of the fire’s destruction with drama and pathos?
Discussion Point: Why does Tacitus select the monuments and works of art he does for mention in this chapter? What about them contributes to the sense of irreparable loss he is evoking? To what extent is the attitude of the seniores here recognizable? And of those who observed the rather contrived coincidences? Why do you think Tacitus includes this sort of bizarre observation in his history?
insula, -ae, f. |
block of flats |
numerum ineo, -ire, -ii |
I reach a number, count |
promptus, -a, -um |
easy |
vetustus, -a, -um |
old, ancient |
religio, -onis, f. |
holiness, sanctity |
ara, -ae, f. |
altar |
fanum, -i, n. |
shrine |
Hercules, -is, m. |
Hercules |
Arcas, -adis |
Arcadian (from Arcadia, region of Greece) |
sacro, -are, -avi, -atum |
I consecrate |
Stator, -oris, m. |
‘the Stayer’ (a title of Jupiter) |
voveo, -ere, vovi, votum |
I vow, devote |
Numa, -ae, m. |
Numa (second king of Rome) |
regia, -ae, f. |
palace |
delubrum, -i, n. |
shrine |
Penates, -ium, m.pl. |
household gods |
exuro, -ere, -ussi, -ustum |
I burn |
decus, -oris, n. |
glory, pride |
exim |
then |
monumentum, -i, n. |
monument |
ingenium, -ii, n. |
(here) man of genius |
incorruptus, -a, -um |
undamaged |
quamvis |
although |
pulchritudo, -inis, f. |
beauty |
resurgo, -ere, -surrexi, -surrectum |
I recover, rise again |
seniores, -um, m.pl. |
older men |
memini, -isse |
I remember |
reparo, -are, -avi, -atum |
I restore |
nequeo, -ire, -ivi, -itum |
I am unable |
adnoto, -are, -avi, -atum |
I notice |
principium, -ii, n. |
beginning |
Senones, -um, m.pl. |
the Senonian Gauls |
inflammo, -are, -avi, -atum |
I set fire to |
cura, -ae, f. |
study |
totidem |
the same number of |
numero, -are, -avi, -atum |
I count |
1 Ceterum Nero usus est patriae ruinis extruxitque domum in qua haud proinde gemmae et aurum miraculo essent, solita pridem et luxu vulgata, quam arva et stagna et in modum solitudinum hinc silvae inde aperta spatia et prospectus, magistris et machinatoribus Severo et Celere, quibus ingenium et audacia erat etiam quae natura denegavisset per artem temptare et viribus principis inludere. 2 namque ab lacu Averno navigabilem fossam usque ad ostia Tiberina depressuros promiserant squalenti litore aut per montes adversos. neque enim aliud umidum gignendis aquis occurrit quam Pomptinae paludes: cetera abrupta aut arentia ac, si perrumpi possent, intolerandus labor nec satis causae. Nero tamen, ut erat incredibilium cupitor, effodere proxima Averno iuga conisus est; manentque vestigia inritae spei.
42.1:
- Analyse the design of Nero usus est patriae ruinis extruxitque domum, thinking particularly about the contrasts Tacitus is drawing.
- State and explain the case of miraculo. What does the subjunctive essent indicate here?
- What type of dative is quibus?
42.2:
- Parse depressuros.
- How does Tacitus’ choice and position of words in squalenti litore aut per montes adversos convey the difficulty of this project?
Stylistic Appreciation: How does Tacitus underscore the extravagance and vanity of Nero’s building programme after the fire?
Discussion Point: What are we to make of the contrast between ars and natura in this chapter? Have you encountered this polarity elsewhere in the classical world? Was it admirable to be an incredibilium cupitor? Is it admirable now? Nero was the last emperor of his dynasty (the Julio-Claudians); the emperors of the next (Flavian) dynasty built all over Nero’s great rus in urbe. Why do you think they did this? How might the fact that the dynasty to which Nero belonged ended with his death have affected our understanding of him?
ceterum |
but |
ruina, -ae, f. |
destruction |
proinde … quam… |
so much… as… |
gemma, -ae, f. |
jewel |
miraculum, -i, n. |
source of wonder |
solitus, -a, -um |
familiar |
pridem |
for a long time |
luxus, -us, m. |
luxury |
vulgo, -are, -avi, -atum |
I popularise, make common |
arvum, -i, n. |
field |
stagnum, -i, n. |
lake |
in modum (+ gen.) |
in the manner of |
solitudo, -inis, f. |
wildnerness |
hinc … inde… |
on this side… on that side… |
prospectus, -us, m. |
view |
magister, -ri, m. |
(here) architect |
machinator, -oris, m. |
engineer |
audacia, -ae, f. |
boldness |
denego, -are, -avi, -atus |
I refuse |
tempto, -are, -avi, -atum |
I try |
vires, -ium, f.pl. |
(here) wealth, resources |
inludo, -ere, -lusi, -lusum (+ dat.) |
I fool away, squander |
Avernus lacus, -us, m. |
lake Avernus (in the Bay of Naples) |
navigabilis, -e |
navigable |
fossa, -ae, f. |
(here) canal |
ostium, -ii, n. |
mouth (of a river) |
Tiberinus, -a, -um |
of the river Tiber |
deprimo, -ere, -pressi, -pressum |
I sink, dig out |
squalens, -entis |
barren |
adversus, -a, -um |
(here) intervening |
umidus, -a, -um |
moist |
occurro, -ere, -curri, -cursum |
I occur |
Pomptinae paludes, -um, f.pl. |
the Pomptine marshes |
abruptus, -a, -um |
sheer |
arens, -entis |
dry |
intolerandus, -a, -um |
unendurable |
incredibilis, -e |
impossible, incredible |
cupitor, -oris, m. |
lover of, enthusiast for |
iugum, -i, n. |
hill |
conitor, -i, -nisus sum |
I strive |
vestigium, -ii, n. |
trace |
inritus, -a, -um |
vain |
1 Ceterum urbis quae domui supererant non, ut post Gallica incendia, nulla distinctione nec passim erecta, sed dimensis vicorum ordinibus et latis viarum spatiis cohibitaque aedificiorum altitudine ac patefactis areis additisque porticibus quae frontem insularum protegerent. 2 eas porticus Nero sua pecunia extructurum purgatasque areas dominis traditurum pollicitus est. addidit praemia pro cuiusque ordine et rei familiaris copiis finivitque tempus intra quod effectis domibus aut insulis apiscerentur. 3 ruderi accipiendo Ostienses paludes destinabat utique naves quae frumentum Tiberi subvectassent onustae rudere decurrerent; aedificiaque ipsa certa sui parte sine trabibus saxo Gabino Albanove solidarentur, quod is lapis ignibus impervius est; 4 iam aqua privatorum licentia intercepta quo largior et pluribus locis in publicum flueret, custodes; et subsidia reprimendis ignibus in propatulo quisque haberet; nec communione parietum, sed propriis quaeque muris ambirentur. 5 ea ex utilitate accepta decorem quoque novae urbi attulere. erant tamen qui crederent veterem illam formam salubritati magis conduxisse, quoniam angustiae itinerum et altitudo tectorum non perinde solis vapore perrumperentur: at nunc patulam latitudinem et nulla umbra defensam graviore aestu ardescere.
43.1:
- How does the design of dimensis vicorum ordinibus et latis viarum spatiis cohibitaque aedificiorum altitudine suggest the imposition of order?
- Explain the mood of protegerent.
43.2:
- What construction is effectis domibus?
43.3:
- Explain the syntax of accipiendo.
43.4:
- Why is haberet subjunctive?
43.5:
- Explain the mood of perrumperentur.
- Why is the infinitive ardescere used here?
Stylistic Appreciation: In what ways does Tacitus make this passage a thought-provoking and ambivalent account of Nero’s attempts to improve the city?
Discussion Point: Is Tacitus’ assessment of Nero’s building works fair? How does Nero’s programme of improvements compare to the approaches of other governments, in the modern day or through history, to catastrophes?
Gallicus, -a, -um |
of the Gauls |
distinctio, -onis, f. |
demarcation |
erigo, -ere, -rexi, -rectum |
I build |
dimetior, -iri, -mensus sum |
I measure out |
vicus, -i, m. |
street |
cohibeo, -ere, -ui, -itum |
I restrict |
altitudo, -inis, f. |
height |
patefacio, -ere, -feci, -factum |
I leave open |
porticus, -us, f. |
colonnade |
protego, -ere, -texi, -tectum |
I protect |
purgo, -are, -avi, -atum |
I clear |
pro (+ abl.) |
(here) according to |
rei familiaris copiae, -arum, f.pl. |
personal wealth |
finio, -ire, -ivi, -itum |
I prescribe, define |
apiscor, -i, aptus sum |
I obtain |
rudus, -eris, n. |
rubble |
Ostienses paludes, -um, f.pl. |
the marshes of Ostia |
destino, -are, -avi, -atum |
I assign |
Tiberis, -is, m. |
river Tiber |
subvecto, -are, -avi, -atum |
I carry up |
onustus, -a, -um |
loaded with |
trabes, -is, f. |
wooden beam |
solido, -are, -avi, -atum |
I reinforce, support |
lapis, -is, m. |
stone |
impervius, -a, -um |
resistant to |
licentia, -ae, f. |
unrestrained behaviour |
largior, -ius |
(here) ‘in greater abundance’ |
in publicum |
for public use |
subsidium, -ii, n. |
means, equipment |
reprimo, -ere, -pressi, -pressum |
I stop, extinguish |
propatulum, -i, n. |
an accessible position |
communio, -onis, f. |
sharing |
paries, -etis, m. |
party-wall |
proprius, -a, -um |
one’s own |
ambio, -ire, -ivi, -itum |
I encircle |
utilitas, -atis, f. |
usefulness |
decor, -oris, m. |
beauty |
salubritas, -atis, f. |
health |
conduco, -ere, -duxi, -ductum |
(here) I am conducive |
angustiae, -arum, f.pl. |
narrowness |
perinde |
so much, so readily |
vapor, -oris, m. |
heat |
patulus, -a, -um |
open |
latitudo, -inis, f. |
wide space |
aestus, -us, m. |
heat |
ardesco, -ere, arsi |
I burn, grow hot |
1 Et haec quidem humanis consiliis providebantur. mox petita dis piacula aditique Sibyllae libri, ex quibus supplicatum Vulcano et Cereri Proserpinaeque ac propitiata Iuno per matronas, primum in Capitolio, deinde apud proximum mare, unde hausta aqua templum et simulacrum deae perspersum est; et sellisternia ac pervigilia celebravere feminae quibus mariti erant. 2 sed non ope humana, non largitionibus principis aut deum placamentis decedebat infamia quin iussum incendium crederetur. ergo abolendo rumori Nero subdidit reos et quaesitissimis poenis adfecit quos per flagitia invisos vulgus Christianos appellabat. 3 auctor nominis eius Christus Tiberio imperitante per procuratorem Pontium Pilatum supplicio adfectus erat; repressaque in praesens exitiabilis superstitio rursum erumpebat, non modo per Iudaeam, originem eius mali, sed per urbem etiam quo cuncta undique atrocia aut pudenda confluunt celebranturque. 4 igitur primum correpti qui fatebantur, deinde indicio eorum multitudo ingens haud proinde in crimine incendii quam odio humani generis convicti sunt. et pereuntibus addita ludibria, ut ferarum tergis contecti laniatu canum interirent, aut crucibus adfixi aut flammandi, atque ubi defecisset dies in usum nocturni luminis urerentur. 5 hortos suos ei spectaculo Nero obtulerat et circense ludicrum edebat, habitu aurigae permixtus plebi vel curriculo insistens. unde quamquam adversus sontes et novissima exempla meritos miseratio oriebatur, tamquam non utilitate publica sed in saevitiam unius absumerentur.
44.1:
- Briefly explain Tacitus’ reference to the Sibyllae libri.
- Parse celebravere.
44.2:
- Explain the syntax of rumori abolendo.
44.3:
- Where is Judaea, and why is it described as originem eius mali?
44.4:
- Whom does pereuntibus describe? Explain the syntax of this word.
44.5:
- Parse obtulerat.
- How does the design of non utilitate publica, sed in saevitiam unius absumerentur underline Nero’s cruelty?
Stylistic Appreciation: How is the hypocrisy and cruelty of the emperor brought out particularly vividly in this chapter?
Discussion Point: Tacitus seems to view Rome as a sink-hole for the empire: when and where have similar views been widely held? Are they current today? How plausible is Tacitus’ claim that cruel treatment of a hated minority aroused popular sympathy? Are there more recent instances of this? Christian sources for Nero’s executions of Christians make no mention of his allegations of arson: why do you think this is? Whom are we to believe?
piaculum, -i, n. |
means of appeasing |
Sibyllae libri, -orum, m.pl. |
the Sibylline books (ancient works of prophecy) |
supplico, -are, -avi, -atum |
I pray to (supplicatum [est] is an impersonal passive) |
propitio, -are, -avi, -atum |
I appease |
matrona, -ae, f. |
married woman |
haurio, -ire, hausi, haustum |
I draw (water) |
simulacrum, -i, n. |
statue |
perspargo, -ere, -spersi, -spersum |
I sprinkle over |
sellisternium, -ii, n. |
sacred banquet |
pervigilium, -ii, n. |
vigil |
largitio, -onis, f. |
lavish gifts |
placamentum, -i, n. |
appeasement |
decedo, -ere, -cessi, -cessum |
I subside |
aboleo, -ere, -evi, -etum |
I wipe out, eliminate |
subdo, -ere, -didi, -ditum |
I frame |
reus, -i, m. |
defendant; culprit; (here) scapegoat |
quaesitus, -a, -um |
elaborate |
adficio, -ere, -feci, -fectum |
I inflict |
flagitium, -ii, n. |
outrage |
invisus, -a, -um |
hated |
procurator, -oris, m. |
governor (of a province) |
supplicium, -ii, n. |
death-penalty |
exitiabilis, -e |
deadly |
pudendus, -a, -um |
shameful |
confluo, -ere, -fluxi |
I flow together |
celebro, -are, -avi, -atum |
(here) I become popular |
corripio, -ere, -ripui, -reptum |
I arrest |
fateor, -eri, fassus sum |
I confess |
indicium, -ii, n. |
evidence |
ludibrium, -ii, n. |
humiliation |
fera, -ae, f. |
wild beast |
tergum, -i, n. |
(here) skin, hide |
contectus, -a, -um |
covered with (ferarum tergis) |
laniatus, -us, m. |
tearing |
crux, crucis, f. |
cross |
adfixus, -a, -um |
(here) nailed to |
deficio, -ere, -feci, -fectum |
I end, fail |
uro, -ere, ussi, ustum |
I burn |
habitus, -us, m. |
dress, clothing |
auriga, -ae, m. |
charioteer |
permixtus, -a, -um |
mingled with |
curriculum, -i, n. |
chariot |
sons, sontis |
guilty |
novissimus, -a, -um |
(here) most extreme |
meritus, -a, -um |
deserving |
miseratio, -onis, f. |
compassion |
tamquam |
as though |
absumo, -ere, -sumpsi, -sumptum |
I do away with |
1 Interea conferendis pecuniis pervastata Italia, provinciae eversae sociique populi et quae civitatium liberae vocantur. inque eam praedam etiam dii cessere, spoliatis in urbe templis egestoque auro quod triumphis, quod votis omnis populi Romani aetas prospere aut in metu sacraverat. 2 enimvero per Asiam atque Achaiam non dona tantum sed simulacra numinum abripiebantur, missis in eas provincias Acrato ac Secundo Carrinate. ille libertus cuicumque flagitio promptus, hic Graeca doctrina ore tenus exercitus animum bonis artibus non induerat. 3 ferebatur Seneca quo invidiam sacrilegii a semet averteret longinqui ruris secessum oravisse et, postquam non concedebatur, ficta valetudine quasi aeger nervis cubiculum non egressus. tradidere quidam venenum ei per libertum ipsius, cui nomen Cleonicus, paratum iussu Neronis vitatumque a Seneca proditione liberti seu propria formidine, dum persimplici victu et agrestibus pomis ac, si sitis admoneret, profluente aqua vitam tolerat.
45.1:
- What were the civitates liberae, and what does Tacitus want to suggest by vocantur here?
45.2:
- State and explain the case of missis.
- What does Tacitus mean by Graeca doctrina ore tenus exercitus?
- What type of ablative is bonis artibus?
45.3:
- Parse tradidere. What is the meaning of trado in this context? What is its subject?
- With which noun are the participles paratum and vitatum agreeing?
- State and explain the tense of tolerat.
Stylistic Appreciation: What is there in this section to contribute to our impression of Nero, and how does Tacitus’ use of language draw attention to his wickedness?
Discussion Point: In his search for funds, Nero turns the empire upside down and shakes it. When have countries or empires more recently behaved similarly? What impression of Nero as an emperor does this give? What sort of things would Graeca doctrina have entailed? Who in our times might most closely fit Tacitus’ acid description of Carrinas the hypocrite? Is Seneca much better? Are we to view his withdrawal from public life as principled or craven?
confero, -ferre, -tuli, -latum |
(here) I raise (funds) |
pervasto, -are, -avi, -atum |
I ravage |
everto, -ere, -verti, -versum |
I ruin |
cedo, -ere, cessi, cessum |
(here) I fall victim (cessere = cesserunt) |
spolio, -are, -avi, -atum |
I plunder |
egero, -ere, -gessi, -gestum |
I carry off |
votum, -i, n. |
vow |
prospere |
in prosperity |
sacro, -are, -avi, -atum |
I consecrate |
enimvero |
and what is more |
simulacrum, -i, n. |
statue |
numen, -inis, n. |
deity |
Acratus, -i, m. |
Acratus (agent of Nero) |
Secundus Carrinas, -atis, m. |
Secundus Carrinas (agent of Nero) |
ille … hic… |
the former… the latter… |
flagitium, -ii, n. |
outrage |
promptus, -a, -um |
ready |
doctrina, -ae, f. |
learning |
os, oris, n. |
(here) speech |
tenus (+ abl.) |
as far as |
exerceo, -ere, -ui, -itum |
I train in, practise |
induo, -ere, -ui, -utum |
I imbue |
sacrilegium, -ii, n. |
sacrilege |
semet |
= se |
longinquus, -a, -um |
remote |
secessus, -us, m. |
retirement |
concedo, -ere, -cessi, -cessum |
I allow |
fingo, -ere, finxi, fictum |
I feign, invent |
valetudo, -inis, f. |
(here) ill-health |
aeger, -gra, -grum |
sick |
nervus, -i, m. |
muscle |
cubiculum, -i, n. |
bedroom |
trado, -ere, -didi, -ditum |
(here) I record |
venenum, -i, n. |
poison |
proditio, -onis, f. |
betrayal |
proprius, -a, -um |
one’s own |
formido, -inis, f. |
fear |
persimplex, -icis |
very simple |
victus, -us, m. |
food |
agrestis, -e |
of the countryside |
poma, -ae, f. |
fruit |
sitis, -is, f. |
thirst |
admoneo, -ere, -ui, -itum |
I urge |
profluens, -entis |
running |
vitam tolero, -are, -avi, -atum |
I support my life |