The Histories (Penguin Classics)

The Histories by Tacitus, published by Penguin Classics on August 25, 2009, is a revised edition comprising 342 pages. This work chronicles the tumultuous events following the suicide of Nero in AD 68, marking the end of the first dynasty of imperial Rome. The narrative focuses on the dramatic succession of four emperors—Galba, Otho, Vitellius, and Vespasian—during a year filled with upheaval and peril, providing a detailed account of a pivotal moment in Roman history.

Readers will find that The Histories presents a thorough examination of the political chaos that nearly led to the collapse of the Roman Empire. Tacitus draws on authoritative sources to vividly recount the events of this “long but single year” of revolution, offering insights into the complexities of power and governance in ancient Rome. This edition is part of the Penguin Classics series, known for its commitment to delivering authoritative texts that are accessible to a wide audience.