Forests:
* Dense and vast: Tacitus emphasizes the vastness and density of the forests, often describing them as "impenetrable."
* Dark and gloomy: The forests are often depicted as dark and gloomy, creating a sense of mystery and fear.
* Home to wild animals: The forests are inhabited by wild animals such as wolves, boars, and aurochs, which are depicted as dangerous and powerful.
Mountains:
* Rugged and forbidding: Tacitus describes the mountains as rugged and forbidding, with steep slopes and rocky peaks.
* Source of rivers: The mountains are often depicted as the source of rivers, which flow through the land and provide important resources.
Swamps and marshes:
* Dangerous and treacherous: Tacitus describes swamps and marshes as dangerous and treacherous, difficult to navigate and prone to flooding.
* Home to wildlife: The swamps and marshes are also home to various wildlife, adding to their sense of mystery and danger.
Rivers:
* Wide and flowing: Tacitus describes the rivers as wide and flowing, important for transportation and trade.
* Resourceful: Rivers are also depicted as a source of food, drinking water, and materials for building.
Climate:
* Cold and harsh: Tacitus describes the climate as cold and harsh, with long winters and short summers.
* Challenging for agriculture: The harsh climate makes agriculture difficult and limits the growth of crops.
Overall, Tacitus presents a picture of a landscape that is wild, untamed, and challenging. He highlights the harshness of the environment and its impact on the lives of the German people. This portrayal of the German landscape helps to explain the character and customs of the Germanic tribes.
It's important to note that Tacitus's description of the German landscape is based on his own observations and reports, which may not be completely accurate. However, his account provides a valuable insight into the ways in which ancient Romans viewed the land and people of Germania.