Tacitus and Bracciolini The Annals Forged in the XVth Century   By: John Wilson Ross (1818-1887)

In "Tacitus and Bracciolini: The Annals Forged in the XVth Century," author John Wilson Ross takes readers on a thought-provoking journey through the world of historical forgery. As the title suggests, Ross delves into the fascinating story of the alleged forgery of Tacitus' Annals by the Italian humanist Poggio Bracciolini in the 15th century.

Ross expertly weaves together historical facts, literary analysis, and intricate theories to present a comprehensive account of the controversial events surrounding the alleged forgery. He meticulously examines the motivations behind Bracciolini's supposed plot, drawing from various sources to provide a thorough understanding of the political, cultural, and intellectual climate of the time.

One of the book's strengths is Ross's ability to present complex historical debates in a clear and accessible manner. He deconstructs competing arguments, dissecting the evidence and highlighting the flaws in each. Ross's unbiased approach allows readers to form their own conclusions while raising important questions about the nature of historical truth and the role of forgery in shaping our understanding of the past.

Moreover, Ross's extensive research is evident in his comprehensive examination of primary sources and secondary literature. His attention to detail and meticulous analysis not only make for a compelling read but also lend credibility to his arguments. Additionally, the inclusion of translations from Latin texts and extensive footnotes further enhances the book's scholarly value.

The author's prose is engaging and well-paced, making "Tacitus and Bracciolini" an enjoyable read for both history enthusiasts and scholars. Although the book deals with a highly specialized topic, Ross's accessible writing style ensures that it remains accessible to a wider audience. Furthermore, his ability to contextualize the events within the broader historical and intellectual landscape adds depth and dimension to the narrative.

One potential downside of the book is its focus on a single historical controversy, which may limit its appeal to those with a specific interest in Renaissance and Early Modern history. However, Ross's skillful storytelling and his ability to bring the characters and events to life compensate for this narrow focus, making the book engaging even for readers with limited prior knowledge.

In conclusion, "Tacitus and Bracciolini: The Annals Forged in the XVth Century" is a highly informative and compelling exploration of the alleged forgery of Tacitus' Annals. John Wilson Ross’s thorough research, balanced analysis, and engaging writing style make this book an invaluable resource for anyone interested in the intersection of history, literature, and forgery.

First Page:

Quaestio ... contra communem totius orbis traditionem ac fidem, contra tot historicocum ... nemine contradicente, consensum, demum agitari coepta est; et a nobis ... tam abunde ventilate, ut magis copia quam inopia laborare videamur. GISBERT VOET. Spicilegium ad Disceptationem Historicam de Papissa Johanna... Continue reading book >>