Parthia and Parthians in Tacitus’ Annals

Abstract

Tacitus’ Annalsare one of our main narrative sources for the history of the Parthian Empire. In the light of Roman profound enmity towards Parthia, however, it is not always easy to assert how one should interpret this work. This paper summarizes multiple aspects of Tacitus’ description of Parthia and Parthians, addressing questions of credibility and representation of others. Through contextual analysis of narrative allusions and resonances, one strives to show that Tacitus’ evaluation of the Arsacids is rather complex.As other Roman authors, Tacitus does show general disregard towards his Iranian foes, but also implicitly associates Parthia to Rome, therefore attenuating the frontiers between both. Secondly, the author examines the persistence of the idea of divisio orbisin the Annals. Finally, one addresses questions concerning Tacitus’ relevance to the study of the Parthian Empire. The author concludes that Tacitus’ descriptions are indeed of great value to the history of Ancient Iran, but only if carefully appreciated.