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+Project Gutenberg Etext Tacitus on Germany, Translated by Gordon
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+Title:  Tacitus on Germany
+
+Author:  Tacitus
+
+Translator:  Thomas Gordon
+
+Release Date:  December, 2001  [Etext #2995]
+[Yes, we are about one year ahead of schedule]
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+Edition:  10
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+Project Gutenberg Etext Tacitus on Germany, Translated by Gordon
+******This file should be named tctgr10.txt or tctgr10.zip******
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+Etext prepared by Dagny, dagnyj@hotmail.com
+and John Bickers, jbickers@ihug.co.nz
+
+
+
+
+
+TACITUS ON GERMANY
+
+Translated by
+Thomas Gordon
+
+
+
+
+PREPARER'S NOTE
+
+  This text was prepared from a 1910 edition, published by P F
+  Collier & Son Company, New York.
+
+
+
+INTRODUCTORY NOTE
+
+The dates of the birth and death of Tacitus are uncertain, but it is
+probable that he was born about 54 A. D. and died after 117. He was a
+contemporary and friend of the younger Pliny, who addressed to him
+some of his most famous epistles. Tacitus was apparently of the
+equestrian class, was an advocate by training, and had a reputation as
+an orator, though none of his speeches has survived. He held a number
+of important public offices, and married the daughter of Agricola, the
+conqueror of Britain, whose life he wrote.
+
+The two chief works of Tacitus, the "Annals" and the "Histories,"
+covered the history of Rome from the death of Augustus to A. D. 96;
+but the greater part of the "Histories" is lost, and the fragment that
+remains deals only with the year 69 and part of 70. In the "Annals"
+there are several gaps, but what survives describes a large part of
+the reigns of Tiberius, Claudius, and Nero. His minor works, besides
+the life of Agricola, already mentioned, are a "Dialogue on Orators"
+and the account of Germany, its situation, its inhabitants, their
+character and customs, which is here printed.
+
+Tacitus stands in the front rank of the historians of antiquity for
+the accuracy of his learning, the fairness of his judgments, the
+richness, concentration, and precision of his style. His great
+successor, Gibbon, called him a "philosophical historian, whose
+writings will instruct the last generations of mankind"; and Montaigne
+knew no author "who, in a work of history, has taken so broad a view
+of human events or given a more just analysis of particular
+characters."
+
+The "Germany" is a document of the greatest interest and importance,
+since it gives us by far the most detailed account of the state of
+culture among the tribes that are the ancestors of the modern Teutonic
+nations, at the time when they first came into account with the
+civilization of the Mediterranean.
+
+
+
+
+
+TACITUS ON GERMANY
+
+
+
+The whole of Germany is thus bounded; separated from Gaul, from
+Rhoetia and Pannonia, by the rivers Rhine and Danube; from Sarmatia
+and Dacia by mutual fear, or by high mountains: the rest is
+encompassed by the ocean, which forms huge bays, and comprehends a
+tract of islands immense in extent: for we have lately known certain
+nations and kingdoms there, such as the war discovered. The Rhine
+rising in the Rhoetian Alps form a summit altogether rocky and
+perpendicular, after a small winding towards the west, is lost in the
+Northern Ocean. The Danube issues out of the mountain Abnoba, one very
+high but very easy of ascent, and traversing several nations, falls by
+six streams into the Euxine Sea; for its seventh channel is absorbed
+in the Fenns.
+
+The Germans, I am apt to believe, derive their original from no other
+people; and are nowise mixed with different nations arriving amongst
+them: since anciently those who went in search of new dwellings,
+travelled not by land, but were carried in fleets; and into that
+mighty ocean so boundless, and, as I may call it, so repugnant and
+forbidding, ships from our world rarely enter. Moreover, besides the
+dangers from a sea tempestuous, horrid and unknown, who would
+relinquish Asia, or Africa, or Italy, to repair to Germany, a region
+hideous and rude, under a rigorous climate, dismal to behold or to
+manure [to cultivate] unless the same were his native country? In
+their old ballads (which amongst them are the only sort of registers
+and history) they celebrate /Tuisto/, a God sprung from the earth, and
+/Mannus/ his son, as the fathers and founders of the nation. To
+/Mannus/ they assign three sons, after whose names so many people are
+called; the Ingaevones, dwelling next the ocean; the Herminones, in
+the middle country; and all the rest, Instaevones. Some, borrowing a
+warrant from the darkness of antiquity, maintain that the God had more
+sons, that thence came more denominations of people, the Marsians,
+Gambrians, Suevians, and Vandalians, and that these are the names
+truly genuine and original. For the rest, they affirm Germany to be a
+recent word, lately bestowed: for that those who first passed the
+Rhine and expulsed the Gauls, and are now named Tungrians, were then
+called Germans: and thus by degrees the name of a tribe prevailed, not
+that of the nation; so that by an appellation at first occasioned by
+terror and conquest, they afterwards chose to be distinguished, and
+assuming a name lately invented were universally called /Germans/.
+
+They have a tradition that Hercules also had been in their country,
+and him above all other heroes they extol in their songs when they
+advance to battle. Amongst them too are found that kind of verses by
+the recital of which (by them called /Barding/) they inspire bravery;
+nay, by such chanting itself they divine the success of the
+approaching fight. For, according to the different din of the battle
+they urge furiously, or shrink timorously. Nor does what they utter,
+so much seem to be singing as the voice and exertion of valour. They
+chiefly study a tone fierce and harsh, with a broken and unequal
+murmur, and therefore apply their shields to their mouths, whence the
+voice may by rebounding swell with greater fulness and force. Besides
+there are some of opinion, that Ulysses, whilst he wandered about in
+his long and fabulous voyages, was carried into this ocean and entered
+Germany, and that by him Asciburgium was founded and named, a city at
+this day standing and inhabited upon the bank of the Rhine: nay, that
+in the same place was formerly found an altar dedicated to Ulysses,
+with the name of his father Laertes added to his own, and that upon
+the confines of Germany and Rhoetia are still extant certain monuments
+and tombs inscribed with Greek characters. Traditions these which I
+mean not either to confirm with arguments of my own or to refute. Let
+every one believe or deny the same according to his own bent.
+
+For myself, I concur in opinion with such as suppose the people of
+Germany never to have mingled by inter-marriages with other nations,
+but to have remained a people pure, and independent, and resembling
+none but themselves. Hence amongst such a mighty multitude of men, the
+same make and form is found in all, eyes stern and blue, yellow hair,
+huge bodies, but vigorous only in the first onset. Of pains and labour
+they are not equally patient, nor can they at all endure thrift and
+heat. To bear hunger and cold they are hardened by their climate and
+soil.
+
+Their lands, however somewhat different in aspect, yet taken all
+together consist of gloomy forests or nasty marshes; lower and moister
+towards Noricum and Pannonia; very apt to bear grain, but altogether
+unkindly to fruit trees; abounding in flocks and herds, but generally
+small of growth. Nor even in their oxen is found the usual
+stateliness, no more than the natural ornaments and grandeur of head.
+In the number of their herds they rejoice; and these are their only,
+these their most desirable riches. Silver and gold the Gods have
+denied them, whether in mercy or in wrath, I am unable to determine.
+Yet I would not venture to aver that in Germany no vein of gold or
+silver is produced; for who has ever searched? For the use and
+possession, it is certain they care not. Amongst them indeed are to be
+seen vessels of silver, such as have been presented to their Princes
+and Ambassadors, but holden in no other esteem than vessels made of
+earth. The Germans however adjoining to our frontiers value gold and
+silver for the purposes of commerce, and are wont to distinguish and
+prefer certain of our coins. They who live more remote are more
+primitive and simple in their dealings, and exchange one commodity for
+another. The money which they like is the old and long known, that
+indented [with milled edges], or that impressed with a chariot and two
+horses. Silver too is what they seek more than gold, from no fondness
+or preference, but because small pieces are more ready in purchasing
+things cheap and common.
+
+Neither in truth do they abound in iron, as from the fashion of their
+weapons may be gathered. Swords they rarely use, or the larger spear.
+They carry javelins or, in their own language, /framms/, pointed with
+a piece of iron short and narrow, but so sharp and manageable, that
+with the same weapon they can fight at a distance or hand to hand,
+just as need requires. Nay, the horsemen also are content with a
+shield and a javelin. The foot throw likewise weapons missive, each
+particular is armed with many, and hurls them a mighty space, all
+naked or only wearing a light cassock. In their equipment they show no
+ostentation; only that their shields are diversified and adorned with
+curious colours. With coats of mail very few are furnished, and hardly
+upon any is seen a headpiece or helmet. Their horses are nowise signal
+either in fashion or in fleetness; nor taught to wheel and bound,
+according to the practice of the Romans: they only move them forward
+in a line, or turn them right about, with such compactness and
+equality that no one is ever behind the rest. To one who considers the
+whole it is manifest, that in their foot their principal strength
+lies, and therefore they fight intermixed with the motions and
+engagements of the cavalry. So that the infantry are elected from
+amongst the most robust of their youth, and placed in front of the
+army. The number to be sent is also ascertained, out of every village
+/an hundred/, and by this very name they continue to be called at
+home, /those of the hundred band/: thus what was at first no more than
+a number, becomes thenceforth a title and distinction of honour. In
+arraying their army, they divide the whole into distinct battalions
+formed sharp in front. To recoil in battle, provided you return again
+to the attack, passes with them rather for policy than fear. Even when
+the combat is no more than doubtful, they bear away the bodies of
+their slain. The most glaring disgrace that can befall them, is to
+have quitted their shield; nor to one branded with such ignominy is it
+lawful to join in their sacrifices, or to enter into their assemblies;
+and many who had escaped in the day of battle, have hanged themselves
+to put an end to this their infamy.
+
+In the choice of kings they are determined by the splendour of their
+race, in that of generals by their bravery. Neither is the power of
+their kings unbounded or arbitrary: and their generals procure
+obedience not so much by the force of their authority as by that of
+their example, when they appear enterprising and brave, when they
+signalise themselves by courage and prowess; and if they surpass all
+in admiration and pre-eminence, if they surpass all at the head of an
+army. But to none else but the Priests is it allowed to exercise
+correction, or to inflict bonds or stripes. Nor when the Priests do
+this, is the same considered as a punishment, or arising from the
+orders of the general, but from the immediate command of the Deity,
+Him whom they believe to accompany them in war. They therefore carry
+with them when going to fight, certain images and figures taken out of
+their holy groves. What proves the principal incentive to their valour
+is, that it is not at random nor by the fortuitous conflux of men that
+their troops and pointed battalions are formed, but by the conjunction
+of whole families, and tribes of relations. Moreover, close to the
+field of battle are lodged all the nearest and most interesting
+pledges of nature. Hence they hear the doleful howlings of their
+wives, hence the cries of their tender infants. These are to each
+particular the witnesses whom he most reverences and dreads; these
+yield him the praise which affect him most. Their wounds and maims
+they carry to their mothers, or to their wives, neither are their
+mothers or wives shocked in telling, or in sucking their bleeding
+sores. Nay, to their husbands and sons whilst engaged in battle, they
+administer meat and encouragement.
+
+In history we find, that some armies already yielding and ready to
+fly, have been by women restored, through their inflexible importunity
+and entreaties, presenting their breasts, and showing their impending
+captivity; an evil to the Germans then by far most dreadful when it
+befalls their women. So that the spirit of such cities as amongst
+their hostages are enjoined to send their damsels of quality, is
+always engaged more effectually than that of others. They even believe
+them endowed with something celestial and the spirit of prophecy.
+Neither do they disdain to consult them, nor neglect the responses
+which they return. In the reign of the deified Vespasian, we have seen
+/Veleda/ for a long time, and by many nations, esteemed and adored as
+a divinity. In times past they likewise worshipped /Aurinia/ and
+several more, from no complaisance or effort of flattery, nor as
+Deities of their own creating.
+
+Of all the Gods, Mercury is he whom they worship most. To him on
+certain stated days it is lawful to offer even human victims. Hercules
+and Mars they appease with beasts usually allowed for sacrifice. Some
+of the Suevians make likewise immolations to /Isis/. Concerning the
+cause and original of this foreign sacrifice I have found small light;
+unless the figure of her image formed like a galley, show that such
+devotion arrived from abroad. For the rest, from the grandeur and
+majesty of beings celestial, they judge it altogether unsuitable to
+hold the Gods enclosed within walls, or to represent them under any
+human likeness. They consecrate whole woods and groves, and by the
+names of the Gods they call these recesses; divinities these, which
+only in contemplation and mental reverence they behold.
+
+To the use of lots and auguries, they are addicted beyond all other
+nations. Their method of divining by lots is exceeding simple. From a
+tree which bears fruit they cut a twig, and divide it into two small
+pieces. These they distinguish by so many several marks, and throw
+them at random and without order upon a white garment. Then the Priest
+of the community, if for the public the lots are consulted, or the
+father of a family if about a private concern, after he has solemnly
+invoked the Gods, with eyes lifted up to heaven, takes up every piece
+thrice, and having done thus forms a judgment according to the marks
+before made. If the chances have proved forbidding, they are no more
+consulted upon the same affair during the same day; even when they are
+inviting, yet, for confirmation, the faith of auguries too is tried.
+Yea, here also is the known practice of divining events from the
+voices and flight of birds. But to this nation it is peculiar, to
+learn presages and admonitions divine from horses also. These are
+nourished by the State in the same sacred woods and grooves, all milk-
+white and employed in no earthly labour. These yoked in the holy
+chariot, are accompanied by the Priest and the King, or the Chief of
+the community, who both carefully observed his actions and neighing.
+Nor in any sort of augury is more faith and assurance reposed, not by
+the populace only, but even by the nobles, even by the Priests. These
+account themselves the ministers of the Gods, and the horses privy to
+his will. They have likewise another method of divination, whence to
+learn the issue of great and mighty wars. From the nation with whom
+they are at war they contrive, it avails not how, to gain a captive:
+him they engage in combat with one selected from amongst themselves,
+each armed after the manner of his country, and according as the
+victory falls to this or to the other, gather a presage of the whole.
+
+Affairs of smaller moment the chiefs determine: about matters of
+higher consequence the whole nation deliberates; yet in such sort,
+that whatever depends upon the pleasure and decision of the people, is
+examined and discussed by the chiefs. Where no accident or emergency
+intervenes, they assemble upon stated days, either, when the moon
+changes, or is full: since they believe such seasons to be the most
+fortunate for beginning all transactions. Neither in reckoning of time
+do they count, like us, the number of days but that of nights. In this
+style their ordinances are framed, in this style their diets
+appointed; and with them the night seems to lead and govern the day.
+From their extensive liberty this evil and default flows, that they
+meet not at once, nor as men commanded and afraid to disobey; so that
+often the second day, nay often the third, is consumed through the
+slowness of the members in assembling. They sit down as they list,
+promiscuously, like a crowd, and all armed. It is by the Priests that
+silence is enjoined, and with the power of correction the Priests are
+then invested. Then the King or Chief is heard, as are others, each
+according to his precedence in age, or in nobility, or in warlike
+renown, or in eloquence; and the influence of every speaker proceeds
+rather from his ability to persuade than from any authority to
+command. If the proposition displease, they reject it by an
+inarticulate murmur: if it be pleasing, they brandish their javelins.
+The most honourable manner of signifying their assent, is to express
+their applause by the sound of their arms.
+
+In the assembly it is allowed to present accusations, and to prosecute
+capital offences. Punishments vary according to the quality of the
+crime. Traitors and deserters they hang upon trees. Cowards, and
+sluggards, and unnatural prostitutes they smother in mud and bogs
+under an heap of hurdles. Such diversity in their executions has this
+view, that in punishing of glaring iniquities, it behooves likewise to
+display them to sight; but effeminacy and pollution must be buried and
+concealed. In lighter transgressions too the penalty is measured by
+the fault, and the delinquents upon conviction are condemned to pay a
+certain number of horses or cattle. Part of this mulct accrues to the
+King or to the community, part to him whose wrongs are vindicated, or
+to his next kindred. In the same assemblies are also chosen their
+chiefs or rulers, such as administer justice in their villages and
+boroughs. To each of these are assigned an hundred persons chosen from
+amongst the populace, to accompany and assist him, men who help him at
+once with their authority and their counsel.
+
+Without being armed they transact nothing, whether of public or
+private concernment. But it is repugnant to their custom for any man
+to use arms, before the community has attested his capacity to wield
+them. Upon such testimonial, either one of the rulers, or his father,
+or some kinsman dignify the young man in the midst of the assembly,
+with a shield and javelin. This amongst them is the /manly robe/, this
+first degree of honour conferred upon their youth. Before this they
+seem no more than part of a private family, but thenceforward part of
+the Commonweal. The princely dignity they confer even upon striplings,
+whose race is eminently noble, or whose fathers have done great and
+signal services to the State. For about the rest, who are more
+vigorous and long since tried, they crowd to attend; nor is it any
+shame to be seen amongst the followers of these. Nay, there are
+likewise degrees of followers, higher or lower, just as he whom they
+follow judges fit. Mighty too is the emulation amongst these
+followers, of each to be first in favour with his Prince; mighty also
+the emulation of the Princes, to excel in the number and valour of
+followers. This is their principal state, this their chief force, to
+be at all times surrounded with a huge band of chosen young men, for
+ornament and glory in peace, for security and defence in war. Nor is
+it amongst his own people only, but even from the neighbouring
+communities, that any of their Princes reaps so much renown and a name
+so great, when he surpasses in the number and magnanimity of his
+followers. For such are courted by Embassies, and distinguished with
+presents, and by the terror of their fame alone often dissipate wars.
+
+In the day of battle, it is scandalous to the Prince to be surpassed
+in feats of bravery, scandalous to his followers to fail in matching
+the bravery of the Prince. But it is infamy during life, and indelible
+reproach, to return alive from a battle where their Prince was slain.
+To preserve their Prince, to defend him, and to ascribe to his glory
+all their own valorous deeds, is the sum and most sacred part of their
+oath. The Princes fight for victory; for the Prince his followers
+fight. Many of the young nobility, when their own community comes to
+languish in its vigour by long peace and inactivity, betake themselves
+through impatience in other States which then prove to be in war. For,
+besides that this people cannot brook repose, besides that by perilous
+adventures they more quickly blazon their fame, they cannot otherwise
+than by violence and war support their huge train of retainers. For
+from the liberality of their Prince, they demand and enjoy that /war-
+horse/ of theirs, with that /victorious javelin/ dyed in the blood of
+their enemies. In the place of pay, they are supplied with a daily
+table and repasts; though grossly prepared, yet very profuse. For
+maintaining such liberality and munificence, a fund is furnished by
+continual wars and plunder. Nor could you so easily persuade them to
+cultivate the ground, or to await the return of the seasons and
+produce of the year, as to provoke the foe and to risk wounds and
+death: since stupid and spiritless they account it, to acquire by
+their sweat what they can gain by their blood.
+
+Upon any recess from war, they do not much attend the chase. Much more
+of their time they pass in indolence, resigned to sleep and repasts.
+All the most brave, all the most warlike, apply to nothing at all; but
+to their wives, to the ancient men, and to even the most impotent
+domestic, trust all the care of their house, and of their lands and
+possessions. They themselves loiter. Such is the amazing diversity of
+their nature, that in the same men is found so much delight in sloth,
+with so much enmity to tranquillity and repose. The communities are
+wont, of their own accord and man by man, to bestow upon their Princes
+a certain number of beasts, or a certain portion of grain; a
+contribution which passes indeed for a mark of reverence and honour,
+but serves also to supply their necessities. They chiefly rejoice in
+the gifts which come from the bordering countries, such as are sent
+not only by particulars but in the name of the State; curious horses,
+splendid armour, rich harness, with collars of silver and gold. Now
+too they have learnt, what we have taught them, to receive money.
+
+That none of the several people in Germany live together in cities, is
+abundantly known; nay, that amongst them none of their dwellings are
+suffered to be contiguous. They inhabit apart and distinct, just as a
+fountain, or a field, or a wood happened to invite them to settle.
+They raise their villages in opposite rows, but not in our manner with
+the houses joined one to another. Every man has a vacant space quite
+round his own, whether for security against accidents from fire, or
+that they want the art of building. With them in truth, is unknown
+even the use of mortar and of tiles. In all their structures they
+employ materials quite gross and unhewn, void of fashion and
+comeliness. Some parts they besmear with an earth so pure and
+resplendent, that it resembles painting and colours. They are likewise
+wont to scoop caves deep in the ground, and over them to lay great
+heaps of dung. Thither they retire for shelter in the winter, and
+thither convey their grain: for by such close places they mollify the
+rigorous and excessive cold. Besides when at any time their enemy
+invades them, he can only ravage the open country, but either knows
+not such recesses as are invisible and subterraneous; or must suffer
+them to escape him, on this very account that he is uncertain where to
+find them.
+
+For their covering a mantle is what they all wear, fastened with a
+clasp or, for want of it, with a thorn. As far as this reaches not
+they are naked, and lie whole days before the fire. The most wealthy
+are distinguished with a vest, not one large and flowing like those of
+Sarmatians and Parthians, but girt close about them and expressing the
+proportion of every limb. They likewise wear the skins of savage
+beasts, a dress which those bordering upon the Rhine use without any
+fondness or delicacy, but about which such who live further in the
+country are more curious, as void of all apparel introduced by
+commerce. They choose certain wild beasts, and, having flayed them,
+diversify their hides with many spots, as also with the skins of
+monsters from the deep, such as are engendered in the distant ocean
+and in seas unknown. Neither does the dress of the women differ from
+that of the men, save that the women are orderly attired in linen
+embroidered with purple, and use no sleeves, so that all their arms
+are bare. The upper part of their breast is withal exposed.
+
+Yet the laws of matrimony are severely observed there; for in the
+whole of their manners is aught more praiseworthy than this: for they
+are almost the only Barbarians contented with one wife, excepting a
+very few amongst them; men of dignity who marry divers wives, from no
+wantonness or lubricity, but courted for the lustre of their family
+into many alliances.
+
+To the husband, the wife tenders no dowry; but the husband, to the
+wife. The parents and relations attend and declare their approbation
+of the presents, not presents adapted to feminine pomp and delicacy,
+nor such as serve to deck the new married woman; but oxen and horse
+accoutred, and a shield, with a javelin and sword. By virtue of these
+gifts, she is espoused. She too on her part brings her husband some
+arms. This they esteem the highest tie, these the holy mysteries, and
+matrimonial Gods. That the woman may not suppose herself free from the
+considerations of fortitude and fighting, or exempt from the
+casualties of war, the very first solemnities of her wedding serve to
+warn her, that she comes to her husband as a partner in his hazards
+and fatigues, that she is to suffer alike with him, to adventure
+alike, during peace or during war. This the oxen joined in the same
+yoke plainly indicate, this the horse ready equipped, this the present
+of arms. 'Tis thus she must be content to live, thus to resign life.
+The arms which she then receives she must preserve inviolate, and to
+her sons restore the same, as presents worthy of them, such as their
+wives may again receive, and still resign to her grandchildren.
+
+They therefore live in a state of chastity well secured; corrupted by
+no seducing shows and public diversions, by no irritations from
+banqueting. Of learning and of any secret intercourse by letters, they
+are all equally ignorant, men and women. Amongst a people so numerous,
+adultery is exceeding rare; a crime instantly punished, and the
+punishment left to be inflicted by the husband. He, having cut off her
+hair, expells her from his house naked, in presence of her kindred,
+and pursues her with stripes throughout the village. For, to a woman
+who has prostituted her person, no pardon is ever granted. However
+beautiful she may be, however young, however abounding in wealth, a
+husband she can never find. In truth, nobody turns vices into mirth
+there, nor is the practice of corrupting and of yielding to
+corruption, called the custom of the Age. Better still do those
+communities, in which none but virgins marry, and where to a single
+marriage all their views and inclinations are at once confined. Thus,
+as they have but one body and one life, they take but one husband,
+that beyond him they may have no thought, no further wishes, nor love
+him only as their husband but as their marriage. To restrain
+generation and the increase of children, is esteemed an abominable
+sin, as also to kill infants newly born. And more powerful with them
+are good manners, than with other people are good laws.
+
+In all their houses the children are reared naked and nasty; and thus
+grow into those limbs, into that bulk, which with marvel we behold.
+They are all nourished with the milk of their own mothers, and never
+surrendered to handmaids and nurses. The lord you cannot discern from
+the slave, by any superior delicacy in rearing. Amongst the same
+cattle they promiscuously live, upon the same ground they without
+distinction lie, till at a proper age the free-born are parted from
+the rest, and their bravery recommend them to notice. Slow and late do
+the young men come to the use of women, and thus very long preserve
+the vigour of youth. Neither are the virgins hastened to wed. They
+must both have the same sprightly youth, the like stature, and marry
+when equal and able-bodied. Thus the robustness of the parents is
+inherited by the children. Children are holden in the same estimation
+with their mother's brother, as with their father. Some hold this tie
+of blood to be most inviolable and binding, and in receiving of
+hostages, such pledges are most considered and claimed, as they who at
+once possess affections the most unalienable, and the most diffuse
+interest in their family. To every man, however, his own children are
+heirs and successors: wills they make none: for want of children his
+next akin inherits; his own brothers, those of his father, or those of
+his mother. To ancient men, the more they abound in descendants, in
+relations and affinities, so much the more favour and reverence
+accrues. From being childless, no advantage nor estimation is derived.
+
+All the enmities of your house, whether of your father or of your
+kindred, you must necessarily adopt; as well as all their friendships.
+Neither are such enmities unappeasable and permanent: since even for
+so great a crime as homicide, compensation is made by a fixed number
+of sheep and cattle, and by it the whole family is pacified to
+content. A temper this, wholesome to the State; because to a free
+nation, animosities and faction are always more menacing and perilous.
+In social feasts, and deeds of hospitality, no nation upon earth was
+ever more liberal and abounding. To refuse admitting under your roof
+any man whatsoever, is held wicked and inhuman. Every man receives
+every comer, and treats him with repasts as large as his ability can
+possibly furnish. When the whole stock is consumed, he who has treated
+so hospitably guides and accompanies his guest to the next house,
+though neither of them invited. Nor avails it, that they were not;
+they are there received, with the same frankness and humanity. Between
+a stranger and an acquaintance, in dispensing the rules and benefits
+of hospitality, no difference is made. Upon your departure, if you ask
+anything, it is the custom to grant it; and with the same facility,
+they ask of you. In gifts they delight, but neither claim merit from
+what they give, nor own any obligation for what they receive. Their
+manner of entertaining their guests is familiar and kind.
+
+The moment they rise from sleep, which they generally prolong till
+late in the day, they bathe, most frequently in warm water; as in a
+country where the winter is very long and severe. From bathing, they
+sit down to meat; every man apart, upon a particular seat, and at a
+separate table. They then proceed to their affairs, all in arms; as in
+arms, they no less frequently go to banquet. To continue drinking
+night and day without intermission, is a reproach to no man. Frequent
+then are their broils, as usual amongst men intoxicated with liquor;
+and such broils rarely terminate in angry words, but for the most part
+in maimings and slaughter. Moreover in these their feasts, they
+generally deliberate about reconciling parties at enmity, about
+forming affinities, choosing of Princes, and finally about peace and
+war. For they judge, that at no season is the soul more open to
+thoughts that are artless and upright, or more fired with such as are
+great and bold. This people, of themselves nowise subtile or politic,
+from the freedom of the place and occasion acquire still more
+frankness to disclose the most secret motions and purposes of their
+hearts. When therefore the minds of all have been once laid open and
+declared, on the day following the several sentiments are revised and
+canvassed; and to both conjectures of time, due regard is had. They
+consult, when they know not how to dissemble; they determine, when
+they cannot mistake.
+
+For their drink, they draw a liquor from barley or other grain; and
+ferment the same so as to make it resemble wine. Nay, they who dwell
+upon the bank of the Rhine deal in wine. Their food is very simple;
+wild fruit, fresh venison, or coagulated milk. They banish hunger
+without formality, without curious dressing and curious fare. In
+extinguishing thirst, they use not equal temperance. If you will but
+humour their excess in drinking, and supply them with as much as they
+covet, it will be no less easy to vanquish them by vices than by arms.
+
+Of public diversions they have but one sort, and in all their meetings
+the same is still exhibited. Young men, such as make it their pastime,
+fling themselves naked and dance amongst sharp swords and the deadly
+points of javelins. From habit they acquire their skill, and from
+their skill a graceful manner; yet from hence draw no gain or hire:
+though this adventurous gaiety has its reward, namely, that of
+pleasing the spectators. What is marvellous, playing at dice is one of
+their most serious employments; and even sober, they are gamesters:
+nay, so desperately do they venture upon the chance of winning or
+losing, that when their whole substance is played away, they stake
+their liberty and their persons upon one and the last throw. The loser
+goes calmly into voluntary bondage. However younger he be, however
+stronger, he tamely suffers himself to be bound and sold by the
+winner. Such is their perseverance in an evil course: they themselves
+call it honour.
+
+Slaves of this class, they exchange in commerce, to free themselves
+too from the shame of such a victory. Of their other slaves they make
+not such use as we do of ours, by distributing amongst them the
+several offices and employments of the family. Each of them has a
+dwelling of his own, each a household to govern. His lord uses him
+like a tenant, and obliges him to pay a quantity of grain, or of
+cattle, or of cloth. Thus far only the subserviency of the slave
+extends. All the other duties in a family, not the slaves, but the
+wives and children discharge. To inflict stripes upon a slave, or to
+put him in chains, or to doom him to severe labour, are things rarely
+seen. To kill them they sometimes are wont, not through correction or
+government, but in heat and rage, as they would an enemy, save that no
+vengeance or penalty follows. The freedmen very little surpass the
+slaves, rarely are of moment in the house; in the community never,
+excepting only such nations where arbitrary dominion prevails. For
+there they bear higher sway than the free-born, nay, higher than the
+nobles. In other countries the inferior condition of freedmen is a
+proof of public liberty.
+
+To the practice of usury and of increasing money by interest, they are
+strangers; and hence is found a better guard against it, than if it
+were forbidden. They shift from land to land; and, still appropriating
+a portion suitable to the number of hands for manuring, anon parcel
+out the whole amongst particulars according to the condition and
+quality of each. As the plains are very spacious, the allotments are
+easily assigned. Every year they change, and cultivate a fresh soil;
+yet still there is ground to spare. For they strive not to bestow
+labour proportionable to the fertility and compass of their lands, by
+planting orchards, by enclosing meadows, by watering gardens. From the
+earth, corn only is extracted. Hence they quarter not the year into so
+many seasons. Winter, Spring, and Summer, they understand; and for
+each have proper appellations. Of the name and blessings of Autumn,
+they are equally ignorant.
+
+In performing their funerals, they show no state or vainglory. This
+only is carefully observed, that with the corpses of their signal men
+certain woods be burned. Upon the funeral pile they accumulate neither
+apparel nor perfumes. Into the fire, are always thrown the arms of the
+dead, and sometimes his horse. With sods of earth only the sepulchre
+is raised. The pomp of tedious and elaborate monuments they contemn,
+as things grievous to the deceased. Tears and wailings they soon
+dismiss: their affliction and woe they long retain. In women, it is
+reckoned becoming to bewail their loss; in men, to remember it. This
+is what in general we have learned, in the original and customs of the
+whole people of Germany. I shall now deduce the institutions and
+usages of the several people, as far as they vary one from another; as
+also an account of what nations from thence removed, to settle
+themselves in Gaul.
+
+That the Gauls were in times past more puissant and formidable, is
+related by the Prince of authors, the deified Julius [Caesar]; and
+hence it is probable that they too have passed into Germany. For what
+a small obstacle must be a river, to restrain any nation, as each grew
+more potent, from seizing or changing habitations; when as yet all
+habitations were common, and not parted or appropriated by the
+founding and terror of Monarchies? The region therefore between the
+Hercynian Forest and the rivers Moenus and Rhine, was occupied by the
+Helvetians; as was that beyond it by the Boians, both nations of Gaul.
+There still remains a place called /Boiemum/, which denotes the
+primitive name and antiquity of the country, although the inhabitants
+have been changed. But whether the Araviscans are derived from the
+Osians, a nation of Germans passing into Pannonia, or the Osians from
+the Araviscans removing from thence into Germany, is a matter
+undecided; since they both still use the language, the same customs
+and the same laws. For, as of old they lived alike poor and alike
+free, equal proved the evils and advantages on each side the river,
+and common to both people. The Treverians and Nervians aspire
+passionately to the reputation of being descended from the Germans;
+since by the glory of this original, they would escape all imputation
+of resembling the Gauls in person and effeminacy. Such as dwell upon
+the bank of the Rhine, the Vangiones, the Tribocians, and the Nemetes,
+are without doubt all Germans. The Ubians are ashamed of their
+original; though they have a particular honour to boast, that of
+having merited an establishment as a Roman Colony, and still delight
+to be called /Agrippinensians/, after the name of their founder: they
+indeed formerly came from beyond the Rhine, and, for the many proofs
+of their fidelity, were settled upon the very bank of the river; not
+to be there confined or guarded themselves, but to guard and defend
+that boundary against the rest of the Germans.
+
+Of all these nations, the Batavians are the most signal in bravery.
+They inhabit not much territory upon the Rhine, but possess an island
+in it. They were formerly part of the Cattans, and by means of feuds
+at home removed to these dwellings; whence they might become a portion
+of the Roman Empire. With them this honour still remains, as also the
+memorials of their ancient association with us: for they are not under
+the contempt of paying tribute, nor subject to be squeezed by the
+farmers of the revenue. Free from all impositions and payments, and
+only set apart for the purposes of fighting, they are reserved wholly
+for the wars, in the same manner as a magazine of weapons and armour.
+Under the same degree of homage are the nation of the Mattiacians. For
+such is the might and greatness of the Roman People, as to have
+carried the awe and esteem of their Empire beyond the Rhine and the
+ancient boundaries. Thus the Mattiacians, living upon the opposite
+banks, enjoy a settlement and limits of their own; yet in spirit and
+inclination are attached to us: in other things resembling the
+Batavians, save that as they still breathe their original air, still
+possess their primitive soil, they are thence inspired with superior
+vigour and keenness. Amongst the people of Germany I would not reckon
+those who occupy the lands which are under decimation, though they be
+such as dwell beyond the Rhine and the Danube. By several worthless
+and vagabond Gauls, and such as poverty rendered daring, that region
+was seized as one belonging to no certain possessor: afterwards it
+became a skirt of the Empire and part of a province, upon the
+enlargement of our bounds and the extending of our garrisons and
+frontier.
+
+Beyond these are the Cattans, whose territories begin at the Hercynian
+Forest, and consist not of such wide and marshy plains, as those of
+the other communities contained within the vast compass of Germany;
+but produce ranges of hills, such as run lofty and contiguous for a
+long tract, then by degrees sink and decay. Moreover the Hercynian
+Forest attends for a while its native Cattans, then suddenly forsakes
+them. This people are distinguished with bodies more hardy and robust,
+compact limbs, stern countenances, and greater vigour of spirit. For
+Germans, they are men of much sense and address. They dignify chosen
+men, listen to such as are set over them, know how to preserve their
+post, to discern occasions, to rebate their own ardour and impatience;
+how to employ the day, how to entrench themselves by night. They
+account fortune amongst things slippery and uncertain, but bravery
+amongst such as are never-failing and secure; and, what is exceeding
+rare nor ever to be learnt but by a wholesome course of discipline, in
+the conduct of the general they repose more assurance than in the
+strength of the army. Their whole forces consist of foot, who besides
+their arms carry likewise instruments of iron and their provisions.
+You may see other Germans proceed equipped to battle, but the Cattans
+so as to conduct a war. They rarely venture upon excursions or casual
+encounters. It is in truth peculiar to cavalry, suddenly to conquer,
+or suddenly to fly. Such haste and velocity rather resembles fear.
+Patience and deliberation are more akin to intrepidity.
+
+Moreover a custom, practised indeed in other nations of Germany, yet
+very rarely and confined only to particulars more daring than the
+rest, prevails amongst the Cattans by universal consent. As soon as
+they arrive to maturity of years, they let their hair and beards
+continue to grow, nor till they have slain an enemy do they ever lay
+aside this form of countenance by vow sacred to valour. Over the blood
+and spoil of a foe they make bare their face. They allege, that they
+have now acquitted themselves of the debt and duty contracted by their
+birth, and rendered themselves worthy of their country, worthy of
+their parents. Upon the spiritless, cowardly and unwarlike, such
+deformity of visage still remains. All the most brave likewise wear an
+iron ring (a mark of great dishonour this in that nation) and retain
+it as a chain; till by killing an enemy they become released. Many of
+the Cattans delight always to bear this terrible aspect; and, when
+grown white through age, become awful and conspicuous by such marks,
+both to the enemy and their own countrymen. By them in all engagements
+the first assault is made: of them the front of the battle is always
+composed, as men who in their looks are singular and tremendous. For
+even during peace they abate nothing in the grimness and horror of
+their countenance. They have no house to inhabit, no land to
+cultivate, nor any domestic charge or care. With whomsoever they come
+to sojourn, by him they are maintained; always very prodigal of the
+substance of others, always despising what is their own, till the
+feebleness of old age overtakes them, and renders them unequal to the
+efforts of such rigid bravery.
+
+Next to the Cattans, dwell the Usipians and Tencterians; upon the
+Rhine now running in a channel uniform and certain, such as suffices
+for a boundary. The Tencterians, besides their wonted glory in war,
+surpass in the service and discipline of their cavalry. Nor do the
+Cattans derive higher applause from their foot, than the Tencterians
+from their horse. Such was the order established by their forefathers,
+and what their posterity still pursue. From riding and exercising of
+horse, their children borrow their pastimes; in this exercise the
+young men find matter for emulating one another, and in this the old
+men take pleasure to persevere. Horses are by the father bequeathed as
+part of his household and family, horses are conveyed amongst the
+rights of succession, and as such the son receives them; but not the
+eldest son, like other effects, by priority of birth, but he who
+continues to be signal in boldness and superior in war.
+
+Contiguous to the Tencterians formerly dwelt the Bructerians, in whose
+room it is said the Chamavians and Angrivarians are now settled; they
+who expulsed and almost extirpated the Bructerians, with the
+concurrence of the neighbouring nations: whether in detestation of
+their arrogance, or allured by the love of spoil, or through the
+special favour of the Gods towards us Romans. They in truth even
+vouchsafed to gratify us with the sight of the battle. In it there
+fell above sixty thousand souls, without a blow struck by the Romans;
+but, what is a circumstance still more glorious, fell to furnish them
+with a spectacle of joy and recreation. May the Gods continue and
+perpetuate amongst these nations, if not any love for us, yet by all
+means this their animosity and hate towards each other: since whilst
+the destiny of the Empire thus urges it, fortune cannot more signally
+befriend us, than in sowing strife amongst our foes.
+
+The Angrivarians and Chamavians are enclosed behind, by the
+Dulgibinians and Chasuarians; and by other nations not so much noted:
+before the Frisians face them. The country of Frisia is divided into
+two; called the greater and lesser, according to the measure of their
+strength. Both nations stretch along the Rhine, quite to the ocean;
+and surround vast lakes such as once have born Roman fleets. We have
+moreover even ventured out from thence into the ocean, and upon its
+coasts common fame has reported the pillars of Hercules to be still
+standing: whether it be that Hercules ever visited these parts, or
+that to his renowned name we are wont to ascribe whatever is grand and
+glorious everywhere. Neither did Drusus who made the attempt, want
+boldness to pursue it: but the roughness of the ocean withstood him,
+nor would suffer discoveries to be made about itself, no more than
+about Hercules. Thenceforward the enterprise was dropped: nay, more
+pious and reverential it seemed, to believe the marvellous feats of
+the Gods than to know and to prove them.
+
+Hitherto, I have been describing Germany towards the west. To the
+northward, it winds away with an immense compass. And first of all
+occurs the nation of the Chaucians; who though they begin immediately
+at the confines of the Frisians, and occupy part of the shore, extend
+so far as to border upon all the several people whom I have already
+recounted; till at last, by a Circuit, they reach quite to the
+boundaries of the Cattans. A region so vast, the Chaucians do not only
+possess but fill; a people of all the Germans the most noble, such as
+would rather maintain their grandeur by justice than violence. They
+live in repose, retired from broils abroad, void of avidity to possess
+more, free from a spirit of domineering over others. They provoke no
+wars, they ravage no countries, they pursue no plunder. Of their
+bravery and power, the chief evidence arises from hence, that, without
+wronging or oppressing others, they are come to be superior to all.
+Yet they are all ready to arm, and if an exigency require, armies are
+presently raised, powerful and abounding as they are in men and
+horses; and even when they are quiet and their weapons laid aside,
+their credit and name continue equally high.
+
+Along the side of the Chaucians and Cattans dwell the Cheruscans; a
+people who finding no enemy to rouse them, were enfeebled by a peace
+over lasting and uniform, but such as they failed not to nourish. A
+conduct which proved more pleasing than secure; since treacherous is
+that repose which you enjoy amongst neighbours that are very powerful
+and very fond of rule and mastership. When recourse is once had to the
+sword, modesty and fair dealing will be vainly pleaded by the weaker;
+names these which are always assumed by the stronger. Thus the
+Cheruscans, they who formerly bore the character of /good and
+upright/, are now called /cowards and fools/; and the fortune of the
+Cattans who subdued them, grew immediately to be wisdom. In the ruin
+of the Cheruscans, the Fosians, also their neighbours, were involved;
+and in their calamities bore an equal share, though in their
+prosperity they had been weaker and less considered.
+
+In the same winding tract of Germany live the Cimbrians, close to the
+ocean; a community now very small, but great in fame. Nay, of their
+ancient renown, many and extensive are the traces and monuments still
+remaining; even their entrenchments upon either shore, so vast in
+compass that from thence you may even now measure the greatness and
+numerous bands of that people, and assent to the account of an army so
+mighty. It was on the six hundred and fortieth year of Rome, when of
+the arms of the Cimbrians the first mention was made, during the
+Consulship of Caecilius Metellus and Papirius Carbo. If from that time
+we count to the second Consulship of the Emperor Trajan, the interval
+comprehends near two hundred and ten years; so long have we been
+conquering Germany. In a course of time, so vast between these two
+periods, many have been the blows and disasters suffered on each side.
+In truth neither from the Samnites, nor from the Carthaginians, nor
+from both Spains, nor from all the nations of Gaul, have we received
+more frequent checks and alarms; nor even from the Parthians: for,
+more vigorous and invincible is the liberty of the Germans than the
+monarchy of the Arsacides. Indeed, what has the power of the East to
+allege to our dishonour; but the fall of Crassus, that power which was
+itself overthrown and abased by Ventidius, with the loss of the great
+King Pacorus bereft of his life? But by the Germans the Roman People
+have been bereft of five armies, all commanded by Consuls; by the
+Germans, the commanders of these armies, Carbo, and Cassius, and
+Scaurus Aurelius, and Servilius Caepio, as also Marcus Manlius, were
+all routed or taken: by the Germans even the Emperor Augustus was
+bereft of Varus and three legions. Nor without difficulty and loss of
+men were they defeated by Caius Marius in Italy, or by the deified
+Julius in Gaul, or by Drusus or Tiberius or Germanicus in their native
+territories. Soon after, the mighty menaces of Caligula against them
+ended in mockery and derision. Thenceforward they continued quiet,
+till taking advantage of our domestic division and civil wars, they
+stormed and seized the winter entrenchments of the legions, and aimed
+at the dominion of Gaul; from whence they were once more expulsed, and
+in the times preceding the present, we gained a triumph over them
+rather than a victory.
+
+I must now proceed to speak of the Suevians, who are not, like the
+Cattans and Tencterians, comprehended in a single people; but divided
+into several nations all bearing distinct names, though in general
+they are entitled Suevians, and occupy the larger share of Germany.
+This people are remarkable for a peculiar custom, that of twisting
+their hair and binding it up in a knot. It is thus the Suevians are
+distinguished from the other Germans, thus the free Suevians from
+their slaves. In other nations, whether from alliance of blood with
+the Suevians, or, as is usual from imitation, this practice is also
+found, yet rarely, and never exceeds the years of youth. The Suevians,
+even when their hair is white through age, continue to raise it
+backwards in a manner stern and staring; and often tie it upon the top
+of their head only. That of their Princes, is more accurately
+disposed, and so far they study to appear agreeable and comely; but
+without any culpable intention. For by it, they mean not to make love
+or to incite it: they thus dress when proceeding to war, and deck
+their heads so as to add to their height and terror in the eyes of the
+enemy.
+
+Of all the Suevians, the Semnones recount themselves to be the most
+ancient and most noble. The belief of their antiquity is confirmed by
+religious mysteries. At a stated time of the year, all the several
+people descended from the same stock, assemble by their deputies in a
+wood; consecrated by the idolatries of their forefathers, and by
+superstitious awe in times of old. There by publicly sacrificing a
+man, they begin the horrible solemnity of their barbarous worship. To
+this grove another sort of reverence is also paid. No one enters it
+otherwise than bound with ligatures, thence professing his
+subordination and meanness, and power of the Deity there. If he fall
+down, he is not permitted to rise or be raised, but grovels along upon
+the ground. And of all their superstition, this is the drift and
+tendency; that from this place the nation drew their original, that
+here God, the supreme Governor of the world, resides, and that all
+things else whatsoever are subject to him and bound to obey him. The
+potent condition of the Semnones has increased their influence and
+authority, as they inhabit an hundred towns; and from the largeness of
+their community it comes, that they hold themselves for the head of
+the Suevians.
+
+What on the contrary ennobles the Langobards is the smallness of their
+number, for that they, who are surrounded with very many and very
+powerful nations, derive their security from no obsequiousness or
+plying; but from the dint of battle and adventurous deeds. There
+follow in order the Reudignians, and Aviones, and Angles, and
+Varinians, and Eudoses, and Suardones and Nuithones; all defended by
+rivers or forests. Nor in one of these nations does aught remarkable
+occur, only that they universally join in the worship of /Herthum/;
+that is to say, the Mother Earth. Her they believe to interpose in the
+affairs of men, and to visit countries. In an island of the ocean
+stands the wood /Castum/: in it is a chariot dedicated to the Goddess
+covered over with a curtain, and permitted to be touched by none but
+the Priest. Whenever the Goddess enters this her holy vehicle, he
+perceives her; and with profound veneration attends the motion of the
+chariot, which is always drawn by yoked cows. Then it is that days of
+rejoicing always ensue, and in all places whatsoever which she
+descends to honour with a visit and her company, feasts and recreation
+abound. They go not to war; they touch no arms; fast laid up is every
+hostile weapon; peace and repose are then only known, then only
+beloved, till to the temple the same priest reconducts the Goddess
+when well tired with the conversation of mortal beings. Anon the
+chariot is washed and purified in a secret lake, as also the curtain;
+nay, the Deity herself too, if you choose to believe it. In this
+office it is slaves who minister, and they are forthwith doomed to be
+swallowed up in the same lake. Hence all men are possessed with
+mysterious terror; as well as with a holy ignorance what that must be,
+which none see but such as are immediately to perish. Moreover this
+quarter of the Suevians stretches to the middle of Germany.
+
+The community next adjoining, is that of the Hermondurians; (that I
+may now follow the course of the Danube, as a little before I did that
+of the Rhine) a people this, faithful to the Romans. So that to them
+alone of all the Germans, commerce is permitted; not barely upon the
+bank of the Rhine, but more extensively, and even in that glorious
+colony in the province of Rhoetia. They travel everywhere at their own
+discretion and without a guard; and when to other nations, we show no
+more than our arms and encampments, to this people we throw open our
+houses and dwellings, as to men who have no longing to possess them.
+In the territories of the Hermondurians rises the Elbe, a river very
+famous and formerly well known to us; at present we only hear it
+named.
+
+Close by the Hermondurians reside the Nariscans, and next to them the
+Marcomanians and Quadians. Amongst these the Marcomanians are most
+signal in force and renown; nay, their habitation itself they acquired
+by their bravery, as from thence they formerly expulsed the Boians.
+Nor do the Nariscans or Quadians degenerate in spirit. Now this is as
+it were the frontier of Germany, as far as Germany is washed by the
+Danube. To the times within our memory the Marcomanians and Quadians
+were governed by kings, who were natives of their own, descended from
+the noble line of Maroboduus and Tudrus. At present they are even
+subject to such as are foreigners. But the whole strength and sway of
+their king is derived from the authority of the Romans. From our arms,
+they rarely receive any aid; from our money very frequently.
+
+Nor less powerful are the several people beyond them; namely, the
+Marsignians, the Gothinians, the Osians and the Burians, who
+altogether enclose the Marcomanians and Quadians behind. Of those, the
+Marsignians and the Burians in speech and dress resemble the Suevians.
+From the Gallic language spoken by the Gothinians, and from that of
+Pannonia by the Osians, it is manifest that neither of these people
+are Germans; as it is also from their bearing to pay tribute. Upon
+them as upon aliens their tribute is imposed, partly by the
+Sarmatians, partly by the Quadians. The Gothinians, to heighten their
+disgrace, are forced to labour in the iron mines. By all these several
+nations but little level country is possessed: they are seated amongst
+forests, and upon the ridges and declivities of mountains. For, Suevia
+is parted by a continual ridge of mountains; beyond which, live many
+distinct nations. Of these the Lygians are most numerous and
+extensive, and spread into several communities. It will suffice to
+mention the most puissant; even the Arians, Helvicones, Manimians;
+Elysians and Naharvalians. Amongst the Naharvalians is shown a grove,
+sacred to devotion extremely ancient. Over it a Priest presides
+apparelled like a woman; but according to the explication of the
+Romans, 'tis /Castor/ and /Pollux/ who are here worshipped. This
+Divinity is named /Alcis/. There are indeed no images here, no traces
+of an extraneous superstition; yet their devotion is addressed to
+young men and to brothers. Now the Arians, besides their forces, in
+which they surpass the several nations just recounted, are in their
+persons stern and truculent; and even humour and improve their natural
+grimness and ferocity by art and time. They wear black shields, their
+bodies are painted black, they choose dark nights for engaging in
+battle; and by the very awe and ghastly hue of their army, strike the
+enemy with dread, as none can bear this their aspect so surprising and
+as it were quite infernal. For, in all battles the eyes are vanquished
+first.
+
+Beyond the Lygians dwell the Gothones, under the rule of a King; and
+thence held in subjection somewhat stricter than the other German
+nations, yet not so strict as to extinguish all their liberty.
+Immediately adjoining are the Rugians and Lemovians upon the coast of
+the ocean, and of these several nations the characteristics are a
+round shield, a short sword and kingly government. Next occur the
+communities of the Suiones, situated in the ocean itself; and besides
+their strength in men and arms, very powerful at sea. The form of
+their vessels varies thus far from ours, that they have prows at each
+end, so as to be always ready to row to shore without turning nor are
+they moved by sails, nor on their sides have benches of oars placed,
+but the rowers ply here and there in all parts of the ship alike, as
+in some rivers is done, and change their oars from place to place,
+just as they shift their course hither or thither. To wealth also,
+amongst them, great veneration is paid, and thence a single ruler
+governs them, without all restriction of power, and exacting unlimited
+obedience. Neither here, as amongst other nations of Germany, are arms
+used indifferently by all, but shut up and warded under the care of a
+particular keeper, who in truth too is always a slave: since from all
+sudden invasions and attacks from their foes, the ocean protects them:
+besides that armed bands, when they are not employed, grow easily
+debauched and tumultuous. The truth is, it suits not the interest of
+an arbitrary Prince, to trust the care and power of arms either with a
+nobleman or with a freeman, or indeed with any man above the condition
+of a slave.
+
+Beyond the Suiones is another sea, one very heavy and almost void of
+agitation; and by it the whole globe is thought to be bounded and
+environed, for that the reflection of the sun, after his setting,
+continues till his rising, so bright as to darken the stars. To this,
+popular opinion has added, that the tumult also of his emerging from
+the sea is heard, that forms divine are then seen, as likewise the
+rays about his head. Only thus far extend the limits of nature, if
+what fame says be true. Upon the right of the Suevian Sea the AEstyan
+nations reside, who use the same customs and attire with the Suevians;
+their language more resembles that of Britain. They worship the Mother
+of the Gods. As the characteristic of their national superstition,
+they wear the images of wild boars. This alone serves them for arms,
+this is the safeguard of all, and by this every worshipper of the
+goddess is secured even amidst his foes. Rare amongst them is the use
+of weapons of iron, but frequent that of clubs. In producing of grain
+and the other fruits of the earth, they labour with more assiduity and
+patience than is suitable to the usual laziness of Germans. Nay, they
+even search the deep, and of all the rest are the only people who
+gather /amber/. They call it /glasing/, and find it amongst the
+shallows and upon the very shore. But, according to the ordinary
+incuriosity and ignorance of Barbarians, they have neither learnt, nor
+do they inquire, what is its nature, or from what cause it is
+produced. In truth it lay long neglected amongst the other gross
+discharges of the sea; till from our luxury, it gained a name and
+value. To themselves it is of no use: they gather it rough, they
+expose it in pieces coarse and unpolished, and for it receive a price
+with wonder. You would however conceive it to be a liquor issuing from
+trees, for that in the transparent substance are often seen birds and
+other animals, such as at first stuck in the soft gum, and by it, as
+it hardened, became quite enclosed. I am apt to believe that, as in
+the recesses of the East are found woods and groves dropping
+frankincense and balms, so in the isles and continent of the West such
+gums are extracted by the force and proximity of the sun; at first
+liquid and flowing into the next sea, then thrown by the winds and
+waves upon the opposite shore. If you try the nature of amber by the
+application of fire, it kindles like a torch; and feeds a thick and
+unctuous flame very high scented, and presently becomes glutinous like
+pitch or rosin.
+
+Upon the Suiones, border the people Sitones; and, agreeing with them
+in all other things, differ from them in one, that here the
+sovereignty is exercised by a woman. So notoriously do they degenerate
+not only from a state of liberty, but even below a state of bondage.
+Here end the territories of the Suevians.
+
+Whether amongst the Sarmatians or the Germans I ought to account the
+Peucinians, the Venedians, and the Fennians, is what I cannot
+determine; though the Peucinians, whom some call Basstarnians, speak
+the same language with the Germans, use the same attire, build like
+them, and live like them, in that dirtiness and sloth so common to
+all. Somewhat they are corrupted into the fashion of the Sarmatians by
+the inter-marriages of the principal sort with that nation: from
+whence the Venedians have derived very many of their customs and a
+great resemblance. For they are continually traversing and infesting
+with robberies all the forests and mountains lying between the
+Peucinians and Fennians. Yet they are rather reckoned amongst the
+Germans, for that they have fixed houses, and carry shields, and
+prefer travelling on foot, and excel in swiftness. Usages these, all
+widely differing from those of the Sarmatians, who live on horseback
+and dwell in waggons. In wonderful savageness live the nation of the
+Fennians, and in beastly poverty, destitute of arms, of horses, and of
+homes; their food, the common herbs; their apparel, skins; their bed,
+the earth; their only hope in their arrows, which for want of iron
+they point with bones. Their common support they have from the chase,
+women as well as men; for with these the former wander up and down,
+and crave a portion of the prey. Nor other shelter have they even for
+their babes, against the violence of tempests and ravening beasts,
+than to cover them with the branches of trees twisted together; this a
+reception for the old men, and hither resort the young. Such a
+condition they judge more happy than the painful occupation of
+cultivating the ground, than the labour of rearing houses, than the
+agitations of hope and fear attending the defence of their own
+property or the seizing that of others. Secure against the designs of
+men, secure against the malignity of the Gods, they have accomplished
+a thing of infinite difficulty; that to them nothing remains even to
+be wished.
+
+What further accounts we have are fabulous: as that the Hellusians and
+Oxiones have the countenances and aspect of men, with the bodies and
+limbs of savage beasts. This, as a thing about which I have no certain
+information, I shall leave untouched.
+
+
+
+
+
+End of Project Gutenberg Etext Tacitus on Germany, Translated by Gordon
+
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