Unfortunately, there isn't much definitive information about a specific author named Cornelius Tacitus. Most likely, you're interested in the famous Roman historian Publius Cornelius Tacitus. Here's what we know about him:
Full Name: Publius Cornelius Tacitus (sometimes Gaius Cornelius Tacitus)
Lived: c. 56 AD – c. 117 AD
Occupation: Senator, consul, governor, historian
Literary Genre: History (Silver Age of Latin literature)
Famous Works:
- Annals: Covers Roman history from 14 AD to 68 AD, focusing on the reigns of Tiberius, Claudius, Nero, and part of Galba.
- Histories: Covers Roman history from 69 AD to 96 AD, focusing on a turbulent period of civil war and political upheaval.
- Germania: A shorter ethnographic work describing the Germanic tribes beyond the Roman Empire's borders.
- Agricola: A biography of his father-in-law, Agricola, a prominent Roman general.
- Dialogus de oratoribus: A dialogue on oratory, though its authorship is debated.
Legacy and Recognition:
- Renowned Historian: Tacitus is widely regarded as one of the greatest Roman historians, known for his insightful analysis, powerful prose style, and critical perspective on Roman emperors and politics.
- Focus on Political Intrigue: His works delve into the psychological motivations of emperors, expose political corruption, and explore the decline of Roman morals and values.
- Enduring Influence: Tacitus' historical writings have influenced historians and political thinkers for centuries, offering valuable insights into the workings of power and the dangers of tyranny.
Possible Confusion:
There might be some confusion with the name "Cornelius Tacitus." It's possible there were other individuals with those names during the Roman period, but historical records are not as comprehensive for lesser-known figures.
If you have any information about the specific Cornelius Tacitus you're interested in, I can try to help you find more details, but based on what you provided, Publius Cornelius Tacitus, the famous historian, seems like the most likely candidate.