Annals 4

Abstract This chapter is a survey of Book 4 of Tacitus’ Annals, focusing on its connections and interactions with the historian’s earlier texts and with other contexts in the Annals. Moving systematically through Book 4, the chapter focuses on the following themes and episodes: the rise of Sejanus and his role in the decline of Tiberius’ reign and the Principate as an institution; Sejanus’ attacks against Germanicus’ relatives and supporters; the development of the treason (maiestas) law, and the specific trials recorded by Tacitus; the military campaigns in northern Africa, Thrace, and Germany; Tacitus’ digression about his material and methods; and Tiberius’ withdrawal to Capri. The chapter’s main argument is that it is essential to read Annals 4 alongside Tacitus’ earlier texts to properly understand his account of Tiberius’ reign and the Principate.