Caesar's Commentaries

**Theodotos I** · 03-13-2008, 20:07

Having just started reading a copy of Rex Warner’s 1960 translation of the War Commentaries of Caesar, I was wondering what the opinion of the EB team was regarding this translation, as to its accuracy of reliability. So far it’s quite fascinating, but I’d be interested in knowing more about it. Thanks for any input.

**Ibrahim** · 03-13-2008, 20:14

its basically a propoganda piece...but it does have a good deal of useful information nontheless

**abou** · 03-13-2008, 20:24

Originally Posted by Ibrahim

its basically a propoganda piece...but it does have a good deal of useful information nontheless

Sort of. Caesar had enough enemies in Rome that he couldn't outright lie; however, he certainly makes himself look good. A careful reader knows where Caesar is twisting things with careful language so as to obfuscate the lazy reader.

**General Appo** · 03-13-2008, 20:45

Indeed. Remember that there were literary hundreds if not thousands of people of all ranks in Ceasars armies that were clients of various Roman Senators and very likely wrote letters and such containing information regarding Ceasars doings. Any outright lies or over-manipulation of the truth would surely have been quickly exposed and used against Ceasar.

**pezhetairoi** · 03-14-2008, 02:12

Just be sure to take what he says with a pinch of salt. Hot pursuits of the enemy could be anything, from one legionnaire running after them to the entire army hell-for-leather. But as long as he keeps it vague, for example, he's safe. Look for areas that could have been better elaborated but are kept rather vague.