The Roman historian Tacitus was a shrewd observer and critic of imperial rule, and often contrasted the superior lives and morals of foreign people with that of Romans. In excerpt 6.3, Tacit

The Roman historian Tacitus was a shrewd observer and critic of imperial rule, and often contrasted the superior lives and morals of foreign people with that of Romans. In excerpt 6.3, Tacitus provides a compelling picture of the public and private lives of the Germanic people of the Rhineland. Your paper should take the following form:
I. Introduction. Write and introductory statement. Then, clearly state your thesis: “This paper
will argue that Tacitus in his descriptions of the Germans, may actually be criticizing the
values of imperial Romans.” You can use this statement as your thesis or modify it as you see
fit.
II. How does Tacitus portray the German tribes’ way of life? What aspects does he admire?
Choose two. What aspects does he criticize? Choose 2.
III. What message do you think Tacitus was trying to convey to his audience in his assessment of
the strengths and weaknesses of Germanic society?
IV. What roles did women play in Germanic society? What was their relationship with men? Why
did Tacitus single out this topic in particular for elaboration?
V. Conclusion. Restate your thesis and summarize your paper by showing how you proved the
thesis.
Guidelines:
1. Your paper must be 900 words, plus or minus 100.