Agrippina the Elder and the Memory of Augustus in Tacitus’ Annals

This article argues that Tacitus’ presentation of the tense relationship between Tiberius and Agrippina the Elder is predicated upon differing interpretations of Augustus’ memory. While Agrippina presents herself as the living imago Augusti and the populace praises her blood connection to the first princeps, Tiberius denies that her ancestry should grant her authority. This argument allows insight into the mnemonic function of women in the Annals and Tacitus’ presentation of the efficacy of the memory and images of imperial family members in general.