As the first historical work by Rome's greatest historian, the Histories hold a crucial place in the study of Latin literature. Book I covers the beginning of the infamous "Year of the Four Emperors" (69 c.e.), which brought imperial Rome to the brink of destruction after the demise of the Julio-Claudian dynasty. Its account of the ensuing power struggles is unmatched for detail and interest. This edition includes the Latin text and provides a complete commentary accessible to students of intermediate level as well as an extensive introduction discussing historical, literary and stylistic issues.

"[Damon] is consistently sensitive to the needs of her audience. I anticipate that students will appreciate using this commentary, which offers just the right mixture of historical, literary and grammatical support. [Damon's] valuable contribution to the Cambridge series should certainly do much to make Histories I enjoyable for Tacitus' latest generation of readers."