Tacitus Germania Summary

Tacitus was a Roman historian who is author of this source. It is his own personal account on the Germanic peoples everyday lives. Based on Tacitus’ account, he criticizes Roman customs by contrasting them with those of the Germans, also referred to as barbarians. The account is organized into different categories that tell specifically about certain areas of these barbarians’ lives.

First, Tacitus naturally talks about the origins of the Germans. He says that the German race is not mixed at all with other races either through intercourse or immigration. He most likely sees this in admiration because everyone in their society appears as a distinct, unmixed race, like none but themselves. He sees the tribes of Germany are free from all taint. The National War songs are shouts that inspire them. They sing them right before battles, where they also sing to Hercules who they claim visited them. Their cattle are very valuable to them, because they are the only riches of the people. They care little for gold and silver, but Tacitus states that he wouldn’t be surprised if they did have some in the rich soil, being that they never check. They are into simpler commodities, which he must find very respectable. When in war, they carry simple spears whether in close or far combat. Their line of battle is drawn up effectively, and the entire country chooses their line up of men. They choose their kings by birth, not having unlimited power. Those who are energetic and conspicuous lead the pack, because they are the most admired. They carry into battle images and figures of their sacred groves, which give them courage. The dearest ones to them stand close by. For example the shrieks of them women make them brave and give them inspiration during war. They seriously worship their deities, and offer up sacrifices for them. Tacitus claims that no other people practice Augury and divination more diligently. All final decisions made between councils rest on the people.