Agricola by Tacitus is lauded for its insightful historical narration and vivid portrayal of Roman and British cultures. Critics appreciate the skillful blend of biography and ethnography, though some find its bias towards Agricola distracting. The prose is engaging, but requires patience due to its dense classical style. Overall, it offers a rich glimpse into ancient history and Roman imperialism.

Readers who relish Agricola by Tacitus are typically history enthusiasts or scholars interested in Roman Britain and military leadership. They often appreciate works like The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire by Edward Gibbon for their rich historical narratives and analysis of classical antiquity.

Agricola by Tacitus is an essay and biography written around 98 AD that praises Tacitus's father-in-law, Roman general Gnaeus Julius Agricola, explores his life and military career, particularly in Britannia, discusses the politics of the Roman Empire under different emperors, and meditates on tyranny and legacy. The work serves as both a tribute to Agricola and a funeral oration. It discusses violence, war, and oppression.

Informative / Contemplative / Inspirational / Bittersweet

- Agricola is notable for being one of Tacitus's earliest works, offering a unique blend of biography and ethnography that detailed the life of his father-in-law Gnaeus Julius Agricola, a Roman general.
- In Agricola, Tacitus doesn't just recount military campaigns; he also reflects on the nature of imperial power, providing a subtle critique of Roman expansionism and governance.
- Tacitus's Agricola is one of the few surviving sources that offer historical insight into Roman Britain and the early interactions between Rome and the British tribes.

**Tacitus**  
A Roman historian and senator, and the son-in-law of Agricola, who narrates the story with an emphasis on his personal connection to Agricola and the political challenges of their time.

**Gnaeus Julius Agricola**  
A respected Roman general and governor of Britannia whose military and administrative accomplishments are recounted by Tacitus, highlighting his disciplined leadership and strategic advancements in the northern territories.

**Domitian**  
A Roman emperor characterized by Tacitus as tyrannical and suspicious, whose reign's policies and actions, including the treason trials, significantly impact the lives and legacies of those around him, including Agricola.

Tacitus

Adult

Book

Nonfiction

Guide

Study Guide

Before You Read

Explore Agricola reviews, reading age recommendations, and essential genre and thematic details before you start reading.

Before You Read Agricola | SuperSummary

title

content

Overview

Get ready to explore Agricola and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

Agricola

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Agricola?

Reading Age

Book Details