Tacitus

As the first historical work by Rome''s greatest historian the Histories hold a crucial place in the study of Latin literature. Book I covers the beginning of the infamous Year of the Four Emperors (69 c.e.) which brought imperial Rome to the brink of destruction after the demise of the Julio-Claudian dynasty. Its account of the ensuing power struggles is unmatched for detail and interest. This edition includes the Latin text and provides a complete commentary accessible to students of intermediate level as well as an extensive introduction discussing historical literary and stylistic issues.