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You may copy it, give it away or +re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included +with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org + + +Title: Tacitus on Germany + +Author: Tacitus + +Translator: Thomas Gordon + +Release Date: April 3, 2006 [EBook #2995] +Last Updated: February 7, 2013 + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: ASCII + +*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK TACITUS ON GERMANY *** + + + + +Produced by Dagny; John Bickers; David Widger + + + + + +</pre> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h1> + TACITUS ON GERMANY + </h1> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h3> + Translated by Thomas Gordon + </h3> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + PREPARER'S NOTE + + This text was prepared from a 1910 edition, published + by P. F. Collier & Son Company, New York. +</pre> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + Contents + </h2> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0001"> INTRODUCTORY NOTE </a> + </p> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0002"> <big><b>TACITUS ON GERMANY</b></big> </a> + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0001" id="link2H_4_0001"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + INTRODUCTORY NOTE + </h2> + <p> + 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. + </p> + <p> + 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. + </p> + <p> + 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." + </p> + <p> + 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. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0002" id="link2H_4_0002"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + TACITUS ON GERMANY + </h2> + <p> + 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 from 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. + </p> + <p> + 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 <i>Tuisto</i>, a God sprung + from the earth, and <i>Mannus</i> his son, as the fathers and founders of + the nation. To <i>Mannus</i> 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 <i>Germans</i>. + </p> + <p> + 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 <i>Barding</i>) 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. + </p> + <p> + 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. + </p> + <p> + 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. + </p> + <p> + 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, <i>framms</i>, 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 <i>an hundred</i>, + and by this very name they continue to be called at home, <i>those of the + hundred band</i>: 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. + </p> + <p> + 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. + </p> + <p> + 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 <i>Veleda</i> for a long time, and by + many nations, esteemed and adored as a divinity. In times past they + likewise worshipped <i>Aurinia</i> and several more, from no complaisance + or effort of flattery, nor as Deities of their own creating. + </p> + <p> + 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 <i>Isis</i>. 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. + </p> + <p> + 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. + </p> + <p> + 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. + </p> + <p> + 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. + </p> + <p> + 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 <i>manly robe</i>, 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. + </p> + <p> + 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 <i>war-horse</i> of theirs, with that + <i>victorious javelin</i> 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. + </p> + <p> + 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. + </p> + <p> + 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. + </p> + <p> + 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. + </p> + <p> + 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. + </p> + <p> + 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. + </p> + <p> + 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. + </p> + <p> + 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. + </p> + <p> + 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. + </p> + <p> + 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. + </p> + <p> + 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. + </p> + <p> + 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. + </p> + <p> + 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. + </p> + <p> + 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. + </p> + <p> + 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. + </p> + <p> + 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 <i>Boiemum</i>, + 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 <i>Agrippinensians</i>, 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. + </p> + <p> + 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. + </p> + <p> + 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. + </p> + <p> + 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. + </p> + <p> + 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. + </p> + <p> + 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. + </p> + <p> + 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. + </p> + <p> + 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. + </p> + <p> + 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 <i>good and upright</i>, are now called <i>cowards and fools</i>; + 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. + </p> + <p> + 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. + </p> + <p> + 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. + </p> + <p> + 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. + </p> + <p> + 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 <i>Herthum</i>; 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 <i>Castum</i>: 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. + </p> + <p> + 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. + </p> + <p> + 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. + </p> + <p> + 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 <i>Castor</i> + and <i>Pollux</i> who are here worshipped. This Divinity is named <i>Alcis</i>. + 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. + </p> + <p> + 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. + </p> + <p> + 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 <i>amber</i>. They call it <i>glasing</i>, + 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. + </p> + <p> + 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. + </p> + <p> + 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. + </p> + <p> + 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. + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + + + + + +End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of Tacitus on Germany, by Tacitus + +*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK TACITUS ON GERMANY *** + +***** This file should be named 2995-h.htm or 2995-h.zip ***** +This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: + http://www.gutenberg.org/2/9/9/2995/ + +Produced by Dagny; John Bickers; David Widger + +Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions +will be renamed. + +Creating the works from public domain print editions means that no +one owns a United States copyright in these works, so the Foundation +(and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United States without +permission and without paying copyright royalties. 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