De Bello Gallico Book 6 (1–23)

[1] 

1 Multis de causis Caesar maiorem Galliae motum exspectans per Marcum Silanum, Gaium Antistium Reginum, Titum Sextium legatos dilectum habere instituit; 

1 For many reasons, Caesar, expecting a greater uprising in Gaul, decided to hold a levy through Marcus Silanus, Gaius Antistius Reginus, and Titus Sextius, his lieutenants; 

2 simul ab Gnaeo Pompeio proconsule petit, quoniam ipse ad urbem cum imperio rei publicae causa remaneret, quos ex Cisalpina Gallia consulis sacramento rogavisset, ad signa convenire et ad se proficisci iuberet, magni interesse etiam in reliquum tempus ad opinionem Galliae existimans tantas videri Italiae facultates ut, si quid esset in bello detrimenti acceptum, non modo id brevi tempore sarciri, sed etiam maioribus augeri copiis posset. 

2 At the same time, he asked Gnaeus Pompey, the proconsul, since Pompey himself remained near the city with military command for the sake of the republic, that he should order those whom he had enlisted from Cisalpine Gaul by the consul's oath to assemble at the standards and set out to him, considering it to be of great importance also for the future, for the opinion of Gaul, that such great resources of Italy should be seen, so that if any setback were received in war, not only could it be repaired in a short time, but also be augmented by greater forces. 

3 Quod cum Pompeius et rei publicae et amicitiae tribuisset, celeriter confecto per suos dilectu tribus ante exactam hiemem et constitutis et adductis legionibus duplicatoque earum cohortium numero, quas cum Quinto Titurio amiserat, et celeritate et copiis docuit, quid populi Romani disciplina atque opes possent. 

3 When Pompey had granted this both to the republic and to friendship, a levy having been quickly completed by his men, and three legions having been established and brought in before the end of winter, and the number of those cohorts doubled which he had lost with Quintus Titurius, he showed, both by his speed and by his forces, what the discipline and resources of the Roman people could achieve. 

[2] 

1 Interfecto Indutiomaro, ut docuimus, ad eius propinquos a Treveris imperium defertur. Illi finitimos Germanos sollicitare et pecuniam polliceri non desistunt. Cum ab proximis impetrare non possent, 

1 Indutiomarus having been killed, as we have shown, power is transferred by the Treveri to his relatives. They do not cease to stir up their German neighbors and promise money. When they could not prevail upon those nearest, 

2 ulteriores temptant. Inventis nonnullis civitatibus iureiurando inter se confirmant obsidibusque de pecunia cavent: Ambiorigem sibi societate et foedere adiungunt. 

2 they try those further off. Having found several states, they bind themselves by an oath among themselves and provide security for the money with hostages: they join Ambiorix to themselves by alliance and treaty. 

3 Quibus rebus cognitis Caesar, cum undique bellum parari videret, Nervios, Aduatucos ac Menapios adiunctis Cisrhenanis omnibus Germanis esse in armis, Senones ad imperatum non venire et cum Carnutibus finitimisque civitatibus consilia communicare, a Treveris Germanos crebris legationibus sollicitari, maturius sibi de bello cogitandum putavit. 

3 When these things were known, Caesar, since he saw war being prepared on all sides—that the Nervii, Aduatuci, and Menapii, with all the Cisrhenane Germans added, were under arms, that the Senones were not coming at his command and were sharing plans with the Carnutes and neighboring states, and that the Germans were being incited by the Treveri with frequent embassies—he thought that he ought to consider war more promptly. 

 [3] 

1 Itaque nondum hieme confecta proximis quattuor coactis legionibus de improviso in fines Nerviorum contendit et, 

1 And so, before winter was yet finished, having assembled the four nearest legions, he marched unexpectedly into the territories of the Nervii, and, 

2 priusquam illi aut convenire aut profugere possent, magno pecoris atque hominum numero capto atque ea praeda militibus concessa vastatisque agris in deditionem venire atque obsides sibi dare coegit. 

2 before they could either assemble or flee, a great number of cattle and people having been captured, and that booty granted to the soldiers, and their fields laid waste, he forced them to come into surrender and give hostages to him. 

3 Eo celeriter confecto negotio rursus in hiberna legiones reduxit. 

3 That business having been quickly completed, he led the legions back into winter quarters again. 

4 Concilio Galliae primo vere, ut instituerat, indicto, cum reliqui praeter Senones, Carnutes Treverosque venissent, initium belli ac defectionis hoc esse arbitratus, ut omnia postponere videretur, concilium Lutetiam Parisiorum transfert. 

4 A council of Gaul having been called in early spring, as he had arranged, when the rest had come except for the Senones, Carnutes, and Treveri, judging this to be the beginning of war and rebellion, so that he might seem to put everything else aside, he transferred the council to Lutetia of the Parisii. 

5 Confines erant hi Senonibus civitatemque patrum memoria coniunxerant, sed ab hoc consilio afuisse existimabantur. 

5 These were neighbors to the Senones and had allied their state in the memory of their fathers, but were thought to have been absent from this plan. 

6 Hac re pro suggestu pronuntiata eodem die cum legionibus in Senones proficiscitur magnisque itineribus eo pervenit. 

6 This matter having been announced from the platform, on the same day he set out with his legions against the Senones and arrived there by forced marches. 

[4] 

1 Cognito eius adventu Acco, qui princeps eius consili fuerat, iubet in oppida multitudinem convenire. Conantibus, priusquam id effici posset, adesse Romanos nuntiatur. 

1 His arrival having been known, Acco, who had been the chief of that plan, ordered the multitude to assemble in the towns. While they were trying, before this could be accomplished, it was announced that the Romans were present. 

2 Necessario sententia desistunt legatosque deprecandi causa ad Caesarem mittunt: adeunt per Aeduos, quorum antiquitus erat in fide civitas. 

2 Necessarily, they abandon their intention and send envoys to Caesar for the purpose of entreaty: they approach through the Aedui, in whose loyalty their state had long been. 

3 Libenter Caesar petentibus Aeduis dat veniam excusationemque accipit, quod aestivum tempus instantis belli, non quaestionis esse arbitrabatur. 

3 Caesar readily grants pardon to the Aedui's requests and accepts their excuse, because he considered the summer season to be for urgent war, not for inquiry. 

4 Obsidibus imperatis centum hos Aeduis custodiendos tradit. 

4 A hundred hostages having been demanded, he hands these over to the Aedui to be guarded. 

5 Eodem Carnutes legatos obsidesque mittunt usi deprecatoribus Renis, quorum erant in clientela: eadem ferunt responsa. 

5 To the same place, the Carnutes send envoys and hostages, using the Remi as intercessors, in whose clientage they were: they receive the same answers. 

6 Peragit concilium Caesar equitesque imperat civitatibus. 

6 Caesar concludes the council and demands cavalry from the states. 

 [5] 

1 Hac parte Galliae pacata totus et mente et animo in bellum Treverorum et Ambiorigis insistit. 

1 This part of Gaul having been pacified, he focused his entire mind and spirit on the war with the Treveri and Ambiorix. 

2 Cavarinum cum equitatu Senonum secum proficisci iubet, ne quis aut ex huius iracundia aut ex eo, quod meruerat, odio civitatis motus exsistat. 

2 He ordered Cavarinus with the cavalry of the Senones to set out with him, so that no uprising might arise either from his anger or from the hatred of the state which he had earned. 

3 His rebus constitutis, quod pro explorato habebat Ambiorigem proelio non esse concertaturum, reliqua eius consilia animo circumspiciebat. 

3 These matters having been settled, because he held it as certain that Ambiorix would not engage in open battle, he mentally considered his remaining plans. 

4 Erant Menapii propinqui Eburonum finibus, perpetuis paludibus silvisque muniti, qui uni ex Gallia de pace ad Caesarem legatos numquam miserant. Cum his esse hospitium Ambiorigi sciebat; item per Treveros venisse Germanis in amicitiam cognoverat. 

4 The Menapii were neighbors to the Eburones' territory, protected by continuous swamps and forests; they were the only ones from Gaul who had never sent envoys to Caesar concerning peace. He knew that Ambiorix had guest-friendship with them; likewise, he had learned that Germans had come into friendship through the Treveri. 

5 Haec prius illi detrahenda auxilia existimabat quam ipsum bello lacesseret, ne desperata salute aut se in Menapios abderet aut cum Transrhenanis congredi cogeretur. 

5 He thought these aids should be taken away from him before he provoked him to war, lest, despairing of safety, he might hide himself among the Menapii or be forced to join with the Transrhenane Germans. 

6 Hoc inito consilio totius exercitus impedimenta ad Labienum in Treveros mittit duasque legiones ad eum proficisci iubet; ipse cum legionibus expeditis quinque in Menapios proficiscitur. 

6 This plan having been adopted, he sent the baggage of the entire army to Labienus in the territory of the Treveri and ordered two legions to set out to him; he himself set out with five unencumbered legions into the territory of the Menapii. 

7 Illi nulla coacta manu loci praesidio freti in silvas paludesque confugiunt suaque eodem conferunt. 

7 Relying on the protection of the place with no force gathered, they fled into the forests and swamps and brought their belongings to the same place. 

[6] 

1 Caesar partitis copiis cum Gaio Fabio legato et Marco Crasso quaestore celeriterque effectis pontibus adit tripertito, aedificia vicosque incendit, magno pecoris atque hominum numero potitur. 

1 Caesar, having divided his forces with Gaius Fabius, the legate, and Marcus Crassus, the quaestor, and having quickly constructed bridges, advanced in three divisions, burned buildings and villages, and captured a great number of cattle and people. 

2 Quibus rebus coacti Menapii legatos ad eum pacis petendae causa mittunt. 

2 Compelled by these circumstances, the Menapii sent envoys to him for the purpose of seeking peace. 

3 Ille obsidibus acceptis hostium se habiturum numero confirmat, si aut Ambiorigem aut eius legatos finibus suis recepissent. His confirmatis rebus Commium Atrebatem cum equitatu custodis loco in Menapiis relinquit; ipse in Treveros proficiscitur. 

3 He, having received hostages, declared that he would hold them as enemies if they received either Ambiorix or his envoys within their borders. These matters having been confirmed, he left Commius the Atrebatian with cavalry in the Menapii as a guard; he himself set out into the territory of the Treveri. 

 [7] 

1 Dum haec a Caesare geruntur, Treveri magnis coactis peditatus equitatusque copiis Labienum cum una legione, quae in eorum finibus hiemaverat, adoriri parabant, 

1 While these things were being done by Caesar, the Treveri, having gathered large forces of infantry and cavalry, were preparing to attack Labienus with the one legion that had wintered in their territory, 

2 iamque ab eo non longius bidui via aberant, cum duas venisse legiones missu Caesaris cognoscunt. 

2 and they were now not more than two days' march away from him, when they learned that two legions had arrived by Caesar's dispatch. 

3 Positis castris a milibus passuum XV auxilia Germanorum exspectare constituunt.  

3 Having pitched camp fifteen miles away, they decided to await German reinforcements. 

4 Labienus hostium cognito consilio sperans temeritate eorum fore aliquam dimicandi facultatem praesidio quinque cohortium impedimentis relicto cum viginti quinque cohortibus magnoque equitatu contra hostem proficiscitur et mille passuum intermisso spatio castra communit. 

4 Labienus, having learned the enemy's plan, hoping that their recklessness would provide some opportunity for fighting, leaving a guard of five cohorts with the baggage, set out against the enemy with twenty-five cohorts and a large cavalry force, and fortified a camp a thousand paces away. 

5 Erat inter Labienum atque hostem difficili transitu flumen ripisque praeruptis. Hoc neque ipse transire habebat in animo neque hostes transituros existimabat. 

5 Between Labienum and the enemy was a river difficult to cross, with steep banks. He himself did not intend to cross this, nor did he think the enemy would cross. 

6 Augebatur auxiliorum cotidie spes. Loquitur in concilio palam, quoniam Germani appropinquare dicantur, sese suas exercitusque fortunas in dubium non devocaturum et postero die prima luce castra moturum. Celeriter haec ad hostes deferuntur, 

6 The hope of reinforcements grew daily. He spoke openly in the council that, since the Germans were said to be approaching, he would not risk his own and the army's fortunes and would move camp at dawn the next day. These things were quickly reported to the enemy, 

7 ut ex magno Gallorum equitum numero nonnullos Gallicis rebus favere natura cogebat. 

7 as nature compelled some from the large number of Gallic cavalry to favor Gallic interests. 

8 Labienus noctu tribunis militum primisque ordinibus convocatis, quid sui sit consili proponit et, quo facilius hostibus timoris det suspicionem, maiore strepitu et tumultu, quam populi Romani fert consuetudo castra moveri iubet. His rebus fugae similem profectionem effecit. 

8 Labienus, having called together the military tribunes and first centurions at night, explained his plan and, to more easily give the enemy the suspicion of fear, ordered the camp to be moved with greater noise and commotion than was customary for the Roman people. By these actions, he made their departure seem like a flight. 

9 Haec quoque per exploratores ante lucem in tanta propinquitate castrorum ad hostes deferuntur. 

9 These things also were reported to the enemy by scouts before dawn, given the camps' great proximity. 

 [8] 

1 Vix agmen novissimum extra munitiones processerat, cum Galli cohortati inter se, ne speratam praedam ex manibus dimitterent – longum esse per territis Romanis Germanorum auxilium exspectare, neque suam pati dignitatem ut tantis copiis tam exiguam manum praesertim fugientem atque impeditam adoriri non audeant – flumen transire et iniquo loco committere proelium non dubitant. 

1 Scarcely had the last of the column advanced beyond the fortifications, when the Gauls, having encouraged one another not to let the hoped-for spoils slip from their hands—[saying that] it was too long to wait for German aid while the Romans were terrified, and that their dignity would not allow them not to dare to attack such a small band with such large forces, especially one fleeing and encumbered—did not hesitate to cross the river and engage in battle in an unfavorable position. 

2 Quae fore suspicatus Labienus, ut omnes citra flumen eliceret, eadem usus simulatione itineris placide progrediebatur. 

2 Labienus, suspecting that this would happen, in order to draw everyone to this side of the river, proceeded calmly, employing the same feigned march. 

3 Tum praemissis paulum impedimentis atque in tumulo quodam collocatis "Habetis," inquit, "milites, quam petistis facultatem: hostem impedito atque iniquo loco tenetis: 

3 Then, having sent the baggage a little way forward and placed it on a certain hill, he said, "Soldiers, you have the opportunity you sought: you hold the enemy in a difficult and unfavorable position: 

4 praestate eandem nobis ducibus virtutem, quam saepe numero imperatori praestitistis, atque illum adesse et haec coram cernere existimate." 

4 display the same courage to us, your leaders, that you have very often displayed to your commander, and imagine that he is present and sees these things face to face." 

5 Simul signa ad hostem converti aciemque dirigi iubet, et paucis turmis praesidio ad impedimenta dimissis reliquos equites ad latera disponit. 

5 At the same time, he ordered the standards to be turned towards the enemy and the battle line to be formed, and having sent a few squadrons as a guard for the baggage, he deployed the remaining cavalry on the flanks. 

6 Celeriter nostri clamore sublato pila in hostes immittunt. Illi, ubi praeter spem quos fugere credebant infestis signis ad se ire viderunt, impetum modo ferre non potuerunt ac primo concursu in fugam coniecti proximas silvas petierunt. 

6 Quickly, our men, raising a shout, hurled their javelins at the enemy. They, when beyond their expectation they saw those whom they believed to be fleeing advancing towards them with hostile standards, could not withstand the attack and, put to flight at the first encounter, sought the nearest woods. 

7 Quos Labienus equitatu consectatus, magno numero interfecto, compluribus captis, paucis post diebus civitatem recepit. Nam Germani qui auxilio veniebant percepta Treverorum fuga sese domum receperunt.  

7 Labienus, having pursued them with cavalry, killing a great number and capturing several, regained the state a few days later. For the Germans who were coming to their aid, having learned of the Treveri's flight, retreated to their homes. 

8 Cum his propinqui Indutiomari, qui defectionis auctores fuerant, comitati eos ex civitate excesserunt. Cingetorigi, quem ab initio permansisse in officio demonstravimus, principatus atque imperium est traditum. 

8 With these, Indutiomarus' relatives, who had been the instigators of the rebellion, accompanied them and departed from the state. The chieftaincy and supreme command were handed over to Cingetorix, whom we showed had remained loyal from the beginning. 

[9] 

1 Caesar, postquam ex Menapiis in Treveros venit, duabus de causis Rhenum transire constituit; quarum una erat, quod auxilia contra se Treveris miserant, 

1 Caesar, after he came from the Menapii into the territory of the Treveri, decided to cross the Rhine for two reasons; one of which was that they had sent aid to the Treveri against him, 

2 altera, ne ad eos Ambiorix receptum haberet. 

2 the other, lest Ambiorix should find a refuge among them. 

3 His constitutis rebus paulum supra eum locum quo ante exercitum traduxerat facere pontem instituit. 

3 These matters having been settled, he began to build a bridge a little above the place where he had previously led his army across. 

4 Nota atque instituta ratione magno militum studio paucis diebus opus efficitur. 

4 By a known and established method, with great enthusiasm from the soldiers, the work was completed in a few days. 

5 Firmo in Treveris ad pontem praesidio relicto, ne quis ab his subito motus oreretur, reliquas copias equitatumque traducit. 

5 Leaving a strong guard at the bridge in the territory of the Treveri, lest any sudden uprising should arise from them, he led the rest of his forces and cavalry across. 

6 Ubii, qui ante obsides dederant atque in deditionem venerant, purgandi sui causa ad eum legatos mittunt, qui doceant neque auxilia ex sua civitate in Treveros missa neque ab se fidem laesam: 

6 The Ubii, who had previously given hostages and come into surrender, sent envoys to him for the purpose of clearing themselves, who were to show that no aid had been sent from their state to the Treveri, nor had their loyalty been broken by them: 

7 petunt atque orant ut sibi parcat, ne communi odio Germanorum innocentes pro nocentibus poenas pendant; si amplius obsidum vellet, dare pollicentur. 

7 they sought and begged that he spare them, lest the innocent should pay the penalty for the guilty due to the common hatred of the Germans; if he wanted more hostages, they promised to give them. 

8 Cognita Caesar causa reperit ab Suebis auxilia missa esse; Ubiorum satisfactionem accipit, aditus viasque in Suebos perquirit. 

8 Caesar, having learned the situation, discovered that aid had been sent by the Suebi; he accepted the Ubii's explanation and inquired about the approaches and routes into the Suebi's territory. 

 [10] 

1 Interim paucis post diebus fit ab Ubiis certior Suebos omnes in unum locum copias cogere atque eis nationibus quae sub eorum sint imperio denuntiare, ut auxilia peditatus equitatusque mittant. 

1 Meanwhile, a few days later, he was informed by the Ubii that all the Suebi were gathering their forces in one place and announcing to those nations under their command to send infantry and cavalry reinforcements. 

2 His cognitis rebus rem frumentariam providet, castris idoneum locum deligit; Ubiis imperat ut pecora deducant suaque omnia ex agris in oppida conferant, sperans barbaros atque imperitos homines inopia cibariorum adductos ad iniquam pugnandi condicionem posse deduci; 

2 Having learned these things, he provided for the grain supply and selected a suitable place for a camp; he ordered the Ubii to bring their cattle and all their belongings from the fields into the towns, hoping that the barbarians and inexperienced men, compelled by lack of provisions, could be led to an unfavorable condition for fighting; 

3 mandat, ut crebros exploratores in Suebos mittant quaeque apud eos gerantur cognoscant. 

3 he commanded them to send frequent scouts into the territory of the Suebi and to ascertain what was going on among them. 

4 Illi imperata faciunt et paucis diebus intermissis referunt: Suebos omnes, posteaquam certiores nuntii de exercitu Romanorum venerint, cum omnibus suis sociorumque copiis, quas coegissent, penitus ad extremos fines se recepisse: 

4 They carried out his orders and, after a few days, reported: that all the Suebi, after more certain news concerning the Roman army had arrived, had retreated with all their own and their allies' forces, which they had gathered, deep into their furthest territories: 

5 silvam esse ibi infinita magnitudine, quae appellatur Bacenis; hanc longe introrsus pertinere et pro nativo muro obiectam Cheruscos ab Suebis Suebosque ab Cheruscis iniuriis incursionibusque prohibere: ad eius initium silvae Suebos adventum Romanorum exspectare constituisse. 

5 that there was a forest there of infinite size, which was called Bacenis; that this stretched far inward and, placed as a natural wall, prevented the Cherusci from the Suebi and the Suebi from the Cherusci from injuries and incursions: and that the Suebi had decided to await the arrival of the Romans at the beginning of this forest. 

[11] 

1 Quoniam ad hunc locum perventum est, non alienum esse videtur de Galliae Germaniaeque moribus et quo differant hae nationes inter sese proponere. 

1 Since we have come to this point, it does not seem inappropriate to set forth the customs of Gaul and Germany and how these nations differ among themselves. 

2 In Gallia non solum in omnibus civitatibus atque in omnibus pagis partibusque, sed paene etiam in singulis domibus factiones sunt, earumque factionum principes sunt 

2 In Gaul, not only in all states and in all districts and divisions, but almost even in individual homes, there are factions, and the leaders of these factions are those 

3 qui summam auctoritatem eorum iudicio habere existimantur, quorum ad arbitrium iudiciumque summa omnium rerum consiliorumque redeat. 

3 who are considered to have the highest authority in their judgment, to whose decision and judgment the sum of all matters and plans revert. 

4 Itaque eius rei causa antiquitus institutum videtur, ne quis ex plebe contra potentiorem auxili egeret: suos enim quisque opprimi et circumveniri non patitur, neque, aliter si faciat, ullam inter suos habet auctoritatem. 

4 And so, for this reason, it seems to have been established in ancient times, lest any of the common people should lack aid against a more powerful person: for each does not suffer his own to be oppressed and circumvented, nor, if he acts otherwise, does he have any authority among his own people. 

5 Haec eadem ratio est in summa totius Galliae: namque omnes civitates in partes divisae sunt duas. 

5 This same system exists throughout all of Gaul: for all the states are divided into two factions. 

[12]  

1 Cum Caesar in Galliam venit, alterius factionis principes erant Aedui, alterius Sequani. 

1 When Caesar came into Gaul, the leaders of one faction were the Aedui, of the other the Sequani. 

2 Hi cum per se minus valerent, quod summa auctoritas antiquitus erat in Aeduis magnaeque eorum erant clientelae, Germanos atque Ariovistum sibi adiunxerant eosque ad se magnis iacturis pollicitationibusque perduxerant. 

2 Since these (the Sequani) were less powerful on their own, because the highest authority had anciently been with the Aedui and their client-states were numerous, they had joined the Germans and Ariovistus to themselves and had won them over by great sacrifices and promises. 

3 Proeliis vero compluribus factis secundis atque omni nobilitate Aeduorum interfecta tantum potentia antecesserant, 

3 Indeed, after several successful battles and all the nobility of the Aedui killed, they had so far surpassed them in power, 

4 ut magnam partem clientium ab Aeduis ad se traducerent obsidesque ab eis principum filios acciperent et publice iurare cogerent nihil se contra Sequanos consili inituros et partem finitimi agri per vim occupatam possiderent Galliaeque totius principatum obtinerent. 

4 that they drew a large part of their clients from the Aedui to themselves, and received the sons of their chiefs as hostages from them, and compelled them to swear publicly that they would initiate no plan against the Sequani, and occupied by force a part of the neighboring territory, and obtained the supremacy of all Gaul. 

5 Qua necessitate adductus Diviciacus auxili petendi causa Romam ad senatum profectus infecta re redierat. 

5 Compelled by this necessity, Diviciacus had set out to Rome to the Senate to seek aid, and had returned with his mission unaccomplished.  

6 Adventu Caesaris facta commutatione rerum, obsidibus Aeduis redditis, veteribus clientelis restitutis, novis per Caesarem comparatis, quod hi, qui se ad eorum amicitiam adgregaverant, 

6 With Caesar's arrival, a change of affairs occurred: hostages were returned to the Aedui, old client-states were restored, new ones were gained through Caesar, because those who had attached themselves to their friendship, 

7 meliore condicione atque aequiore imperio se uti videbant, reliquis rebus eorum gratia dignitateque amplificata Sequani principatum dimiserant. In eorum locum Remi successerant: quos quod adaequare apud Caesarem gratia intellegebatur, ei, qui propter veteres inimicitias nullo modo cum Aeduis coniungi poterant, se Remis in clientelam dicabant. 

7 saw that they were enjoying a better condition and a more equitable rule; and with their influence and dignity enhanced in other respects, the Sequani had lost their supremacy. In their place, the Remi had succeeded: and because it was understood that these were equal in favor with Caesar, those who, on account of old enmities, could in no way be joined with the Aedui, dedicated themselves to the Remi as clients. 

8 Hos illi diligenter tuebantur: ita et novam et repente collectam auctoritatem tenebant. 

8 The latter diligently protected them: thus, they held both new and suddenly acquired authority. 

9 Eo tum statu res erat, ut longe principes haberentur Aedui, secundum locum dignitatis Remi obtinerent. 

9 At that time, affairs were in such a state that the Aedui were considered by far the leaders, and the Remi held the second place of dignity. 

[13] 

1 In omni Gallia eorum hominum, qui aliquo sunt numero atque honore, genera sunt duo. Nam plebes paene servorum habetur loco, quae nihil audet per se, nullo adhibetur consilio. 

1 In all Gaul, there are two classes of those men who are of any account and honor. For the common people are held almost in the place of slaves, who dare nothing on their own, and are admitted to no council. 

2 Plerique, cum aut aere alieno aut magnitudine tributorum aut iniuria potentiorum premuntur, sese in servitutem dicant nobilibus: in hos eadem omnia sunt iura, quae dominis in servos. 

2 Most, when they are oppressed either by debt, or by the magnitude of tributes, or by the injustice of the more powerful, devote themselves into servitude to the nobles: over these, all the same rights exist as masters have over slaves. 

3 Sed de his duobus generibus alterum est druidum, alterum equitum. 

3 But of these two classes, one is that of the Druids, the other that of the knights. 

4 Illi rebus divinis intersunt, sacrificia publica ac privata procurant, religiones interpretantur: ad hos magnus adulescentium numerus disciplinae causa concurrit, magnoque hi sunt apud eos honore. 

4 These (the Druids) are concerned with divine matters, they manage public and private sacrifices, they interpret religious questions: to them a large number of young men flock for the purpose of learning, and these (Druids) are held in great honor among them. 

5 Nam fere de omnibus controversiis publicis privatisque constituunt, et, 

5 For they decide concerning almost all public and private disputes, and, 

6 si quod est admissum facinus, si caedes facta, si de hereditate, de finibus controversia est, idem decernunt, praemia poenasque constituunt; si qui aut privatus aut populus eorum decreto non stetit, sacrificiis interdicunt. Haec poena apud eos est gravissima. 

6 if any crime has been committed, if a murder has occurred, if there is a dispute about an inheritance or about boundaries, they likewise decide, and they determine rewards and punishments; if any individual or people has not abided by their decree, they interdict them from sacrifices. This punishment is the most severe among them. 

7 Quibus ita est interdictum, hi numero impiorum ac sceleratorum habentur, his omnes decedunt, aditum sermonemque defugiunt, ne quid ex contagione incommodi accipiant, neque his petentibus ius redditur neque honos ullus communicatur. 

7 Those who are thus interdicted are held in the number of the impious and wicked; all shun them, avoid their approach and conversation, lest they receive any harm from contact, and neither is justice rendered to them when seeking it, nor is any honor shared with them. 

8 His autem omnibus druidibus praeest unus, qui summam inter eos habet auctoritatem. 

8 Over all these Druids, however, one presides, who has the supreme authority among them. 

9 Hoc mortuo aut si qui ex reliquis excellit dignitate succedit, aut, si sunt plures pares, suffragio druidum, nonnumquam etiam armis de principatu contendunt. 

9 When this one dies, either one who excels among the rest in dignity succeeds, or, if there are several equals, they contend for the supremacy by the vote of the Druids, sometimes even by arms. 

10 Hi certo anni tempore in finibus Carnutum, quae regio totius Galliae media habetur, considunt in loco consecrato. Huc omnes undique, qui controversias habent, conveniunt eorumque decretis iudiciisque parent. 

10 At a certain time of year, they assemble in a consecrated place in the territory of the Carnutes, which region is considered the center of all Gaul. To this place all who have disputes gather from all sides, and they obey their decrees and judgments. 

11 Disciplina in Britannia reperta atque inde in Galliam translata esse existimatur, 

11 The discipline is believed to have been discovered in Britain and thence transferred to Gaul, 

12 et nunc, qui diligentius eam rem cognoscere volunt, plerumque illo discendi causa proficiscuntur. 

12 and now, those who wish to learn about that matter more carefully, generally set out there for the sake of learning. 

[14] 

1 Druides a bello abesse consuerunt neque tributa una cum reliquis pendunt; militiae vacationem omniumque rerum habent immunitatem. 

1 The Druids are accustomed to be absent from war and do not pay tribute along with the others; they have exemption from military service and immunity from all things. 

2 Tantis excitati praemiis et sua sponte multi in disciplinam conveniunt et a parentibus propinquisque mittuntur. 

2 Incited by such great rewards, many come together for instruction of their own accord, and are sent by their parents and relatives. 

3 Magnum ibi numerum versuum ediscere dicuntur. Itaque annos nonnulli vicenos in disciplina permanent. 

3 They are said to learn by heart a great number of verses there. And so some remain in instruction for twenty years. 

4 Neque fas esse existimant ea litteris mandare, cum in reliquis fere rebus, publicis privatisque rationibus Graecis litteris utantur. Id mihi duabus de causis instituisse videntur, quod neque in vulgum disciplinam efferri velint neque eos, qui discunt, litteris confisos minus memoriae studere: quod fere plerisque accidit, ut praesidio litterarum diligentiam in perdiscendo ac memoriam remittant. 

4 Nor do they think it right to commit these things to writing, although in almost all other matters, public and private accounts, they use Greek letters. They seem to me to have established this for two reasons: because they neither want their doctrine to be divulged to the common people, nor do they want those who learn to rely on writing and thus pay less attention to memory: which generally happens to most people, that with the aid of writing, they relax their diligence in thoroughly learning and their memory. 

5 In primis hoc volunt persuadere, non interire animas, sed ab aliis post mortem transire ad alios, atque hoc maxime ad virtutem excitari putant metu mortis neglecto. 

5 Above all, they wish to persuade people of this: that souls do not perish, but pass after death from some to others, and by this belief, they think men are greatly incited to valor, with the fear of death disregarded. 

6 Multa praeterea de sideribus atque eorum motu, de mundi ac terrarum magnitudine, de rerum natura, de deorum immortalium vi ac potestate disputant et iuventuti tradunt. 

6 Many other things besides, they discuss concerning the stars and their motion, concerning the size of the world and lands, concerning the nature of things, concerning the might and power of the immortal gods, and they hand down this knowledge to the youth. 

 Copyright Discoverlatin

[15] 

1 Alterum genus est equitum. Hi, cum est usus atque aliquod bellum incidit (quod fere ante Caesaris adventum quotannis accidere solebat, uti aut ipsi iniurias inferrent aut illatas propulsarent), omnes in bello versantur, 

1 The other class is that of the knights. These, when there is occasion and some war breaks out (which generally before Caesar's arrival used to happen yearly, so that they either inflicted injuries themselves or repelled those inflicted upon them), all are engaged in war, 

2 atque eorum ut quisque est genere copiisque amplissimus, ita plurimos circum se ambactos clientesque habet. Hanc unam gratiam potentiamque noverunt. 

2 and each of them, as he is most distinguished in birth and resources, so he has the most dependents and clients around him. This is the only influence and power they recognize. 

[16] 

1 Natio est omnis Gallorum admodum dedita religionibus, 

1 The entire nation of the Gauls is greatly devoted to religious observances, 

2 atque ob eam causam, qui sunt adfecti gravioribus morbis quique in proeliis periculisque versantur, aut pro victimis homines immolant aut se immolaturos vovent administrisque ad ea sacrificia druidibus utuntur, quod, pro vita hominis nisi hominis vita reddatur, 

2 and for that reason, those who are afflicted with more serious diseases and who are engaged in battles and dangers, either sacrifice human beings as victims or vow that they will sacrifice themselves, and they use Druids as ministers for these sacrifices, because, unless a human life is rendered for a human life, 

3 non posse deorum immortalium numen placari arbitrantur, publiceque eiusdem generis habent instituta sacrificia. Alii immani magnitudine simulacra habent, 

3 they do not believe the will of the immortal gods can be appeased, and they publicly have sacrifices of the same kind instituted. Others have effigies of immense size, 

4 quorum contexta viminibus membra vivis hominibus complent; quibus succensis circumventi flamma exanimantur homines. 

4 whose limbs, woven with wickerwork, they fill with living human beings; when these are set on fire, the men, surrounded by the flame, are suffocated. 

5 Supplicia eorum qui in furto aut in latrocinio aut aliqua noxia sint comprehensi gratiora dis immortalibus esse arbitrantur; sed, cum eius generis copia defecit, etiam ad innocentium supplicia descendunt. 

5 They consider the executions of those who have been caught in theft, or robbery, or any offense to be more pleasing to the immortal gods; but, when the supply of that kind (of offender) fails, they even resort to the execution of innocent people. 

 [17] 

1 Deum maxime Mercurium colunt. Huius sunt plurima simulacra: hunc omnium inventorem artium ferunt, hunc viarum atque itinerum ducem, hunc ad quaestus pecuniae mercaturasque habere vim maximam arbitrantur. Post hunc Apollinem et Martem et Iovem et Minervam. 

1 They worship Mercury most of all the gods. There are very many images of him: him they declare to be the inventor of all arts, him the guide of roads and journeys, him they believe to have the greatest power for gaining money and for trade. After him, they worship Apollo and Mars and Jupiter and Minerva. 

2 De his eandem fere, quam reliquae gentes, habent opinionem: Apollinem morbos depellere, Minervam operum atque artificiorum initia tradere, Iovem imperium caelestium tenere, Martem bella regere. 

2 Concerning these, they hold almost the same opinion as other nations: that Apollo wards off diseases, Minerva hands down the beginnings of works and crafts, Jupiter holds the sovereignty of the heavens, Mars governs wars. 

3 Huic, cum proelio dimicare constituerunt, ea quae bello ceperint plerumque devovent: cum superaverunt, animalia capta immolant reliquasque res in unum locum conferunt. 

3 To him (Mars), when they have decided to fight in battle, they generally dedicate the things they have captured in war: when they have conquered, they sacrifice the captured animals and gather the remaining things into one place. 

4 Multis in civitatibus harum rerum exstructos tumulos locis consecratis conspicari licet; 

4 In many states, it is possible to see mounds of these things piled up in consecrated places; 

5 neque saepe accidit, ut neglecta quispiam religione aut capta apud se occultare aut posita tollere auderet, gravissimumque ei rei supplicium cum cruciatu constitutum est. 

5 nor does it often happen that anyone, disregarding religious scruple, would dare either to conceal captured items with himself or to remove deposited ones, and a very severe penalty with torture has been established for such an act. 

[18] 

1 Galli se omnes ab Dite patre prognatos praedicant idque ab druidibus proditum dicunt. 

1 The Gauls all declare themselves to be descended from Dis Pater, and they say this tradition has been handed down by the Druids. 

2 Ob eam causam spatia omnis temporis non numero dierum sed noctium finiunt; dies natales et mensum et annorum initia sic observant ut noctem dies subsequatur. 

2 For that reason, they define all periods of time not by the number of days but of nights; they observe birthdays and the beginnings of months and years in such a way that night follows day. 

3 In reliquis vitae institutis hoc fere ab reliquis differunt, quod suos liberos, nisi cum adoleverunt, ut munus militiae sustinere possint, palam ad se adire non patiuntur filiumque puerili aetate in publico in conspectu patris adsistere turpe ducunt. 

3 In the remaining customs of life, they differ from others in this way: they do not permit their children to approach them openly unless they have grown up enough to be able to bear the duty of military service, and they consider it shameful for a son of childish age to stand in public in the sight of his father. 

 [19] 

1 Viri, quantas pecunias ab uxoribus dotis nomine acceperunt, tantas ex suis bonis aestimatione facta cum dotibus communicant. 

1 Husbands, whatever sums of money they have received from their wives by way of dowry, they combine with their wives' dowries an equal amount from their own possessions, an estimation having been made. 

2 Huius omnis pecuniae coniunctim ratio habetur fructusque servantur: uter eorum vita superarit, ad eum pars utriusque cum fructibus superiorum temporum pervenit. 

2 An account is kept jointly of all this money, and the profits are saved: whichever of them survives the other, to that one comes the share of both, along with the profits from previous times. 

3 Viri in uxores, sicuti in liberos, vitae necisque habent potestatem; et cum paterfamiliae illustriore loco natus decessit, eius propinqui conveniunt et, de morte si res in suspicionem venit, de uxoribus in servilem modum quaestionem habent et, si compertum est, igni atque omnibus tormentis excruciatas interficiunt. 

3 Husbands have power of life and death over their wives, just as over their children; and when a head of a family born in a more distinguished position has died, his relatives assemble, and if the matter of his death comes under suspicion, they hold an inquiry concerning the wives after the manner of slaves, and if it is discovered, they kill them after torturing them with fire and all kinds of torments. 

4 Funera sunt pro cultu Gallorum magnifica et sumptuosa; omniaque quae vivis cordi fuisse arbitrantur in ignem inferunt, etiam animalia, ac paulo supra hanc memoriam servi et clientes, quos ab eis dilectos esse constabat, iustis funeribus confectis una cremabantur. 

4 Funerals, for the Gallic culture, are magnificent and costly; and they cast into the fire all things that they think were dear to the living, even animals, and a little before our memory, slaves and clients, whom it was clear they had held dear, were burned together after the proper funeral rites were completed. 

[20] 

1 Quae civitates commodius suam rem publicam administrare existimantur, habent legibus sanctum, si quis quid de re publica a finitimis rumore aut fama acceperit, uti ad magistratum deferat neve cum quo alio communicet, 

1 Those states that are considered to govern their commonwealth more conveniently have it sanctioned by laws that if anyone has received anything concerning the state from neighbors by rumor or report, he should report it to the magistrate and not communicate it with anyone else, 

2 quod saepe homines temerarios atque imperitos falsis rumoribus terreri et ad facinus impelli et de summis rebus consilium capere cognitum est. 

2 because it has often been learned that rash and inexperienced men are terrified by false rumors, driven to crime, and make decisions about the most important matters. 

3 Magistratus quae visa sunt occultant quaeque esse ex usu iudicaverunt multitudini produnt. De re publica nisi per concilium loqui non conceditur. 

3 The magistrates conceal what seems fit and disclose to the multitude what they have judged to be expedient. It is not permitted to speak about the state except through a council. 

 [21] 

1 Germani multum ab hac consuetudine differunt. Nam neque druides habent, qui rebus divinis praesint, neque sacrificiis student. 

1 The Germans differ much from this custom. For they neither have Druids, who preside over divine matters, nor do they care for sacrifices. 

2 Deorum numero eos solos ducunt, quos cernunt et quorum aperte opibus iuvantur, Solem et Vulcanum et Lunam, reliquos ne fama quidem acceperunt. 

2 They count among the gods only those whom they perceive and by whose aid they are openly benefited, namely the Sun and Vulcan and the Moon; the rest they have not even heard of by report. 

3 Vita omnis in venationibus atque in studiis rei militaris consistit: ab parvulis labori ac duritiae student. Qui diutissime impuberes permanserunt, 

3 Their whole life consists in hunting and in military pursuits: from childhood they devote themselves to toil and hardship. Those who have remained longest unmarried, 

4 maximam inter suos ferunt laudem: hoc ali staturam, ali vires nervosque confirmari putant. 

4 gain the greatest praise among their people: by this, some think their stature is increased, others their strength and sinews are confirmed. 

5 Intra annum vero vicesimum feminae notitiam habuisse in turpissimis habent rebus; cuius rei nulla est occultatio, quod et promiscue in fluminibus perluuntur et pellibus aut parvis renonum tegimentis utuntur magna corporis parte nuda. 

5 Moreover, to have had knowledge of a woman before their twentieth year, they consider among the most shameful things; of which matter there is no concealment, because they bathe indiscriminately in rivers and use skins or small cloaks of reindeer hide, with a large part of their body bare. 

[22] 

1 Agriculturae non student, maiorque pars eorum victus in lacte, caseo, carne consistit. 

1 They do not devote themselves to agriculture, and the greater part of their diet consists of milk, cheese, and meat. 

2 Neque quisquam agri modum certum aut fines habet proprios; sed magistratus ac principes in annos singulos gentibus cognationibusque hominum, qui una coierunt, quantum et quo loco visum est agri attribuunt atque anno post alio transire cogunt. 

2 Nor does anyone have a fixed measure of land or private boundaries; but the magistrates and chiefs assign each year to the tribes and kin groups of men who have assembled together as much land as seems fit and in what place, and compel them to move to another place the following year. 

3 Eius rei multas adferunt causas: ne adsidua consuetudine capti studium belli gerendi agricultura commutent; ne latos fines parare studeant, potentioresque humiliores possessionibus expellant; ne accuratius ad frigora atque aestus vitandos aedificent; ne qua oriatur pecuniae cupiditas, qua ex re factiones dissensionesque nascuntur; 

3 For this practice they present many reasons: lest, captivated by continuous custom, they should exchange their zeal for warfare for agriculture; lest they should seek to acquire extensive territories, and the more powerful should expel the humbler from their possessions; lest they should build too carefully to avoid cold and heat; lest any desire for money should arise, from which factions and dissensions originate; 

4 ut animi aequitate plebem contineant, cum suas quisque opes cum potentissimis aequari videat. 

4 that they may keep the common people contented, when each sees his own resources equal to those of the most powerful. 

 [23] 

1 Civitatibus maxima laus est quam latissime circum se vastatis finibus solitudines habere. 

1 For states, it is the greatest glory to have the widest possible desolate territories around them, their borders laid waste. 

2 Hoc proprium virtutis existimant, expulsos agris finitimos cedere, neque quemquam prope audere consistere; 

2 They consider this a peculiar mark of valor, that their neighbors, expelled from their lands, retreat, and no one dares to settle nearby; 

3 simul hoc se fore tutiores arbitrantur repentinae incursionis timore sublato. 

3 at the same time, they think they will be safer by removing the fear of sudden incursions. 

4 Cum bellum civitas aut illa tum defendit aut infert, magistratus, qui ei bello praesint, ut vitae necisque habeant potestatem, deliguntur. 

4 When a state either defends itself then in war or makes war, magistrates who are to preside over that war are chosen, so that they may have power of life and death. 

5 In pace nullus est communis magistratus, sed principes regionum atque pagorum inter suos ius dicunt controversiasque minuunt. 

5 In peace, there is no common magistrate, but the chiefs of regions and districts administer justice among their own people and settle disputes. 

6 Latrocinia nullam habent infamiam, quae extra fines cuiusque civitatis fiunt, atque ea iuventutis exercendae ac desidiae minuendae causa fieri praedicant. 

6 Raids that occur outside the borders of each state carry no disgrace, and they declare that these are done for the sake of exercising the youth and diminishing idleness. 

7 Atque ubi quis ex principibus in concilio dixit se ducem fore, qui sequi velint, profiteantur, consurgunt ei qui et causam et hominem probant suumque auxilium pollicentur atque ab multitudine collaudantur: 

7 And when someone from among the chiefs has said in council that he will be leader, let those who wish to follow declare themselves, those who approve both the cause and the man rise up and promise their aid and are highly praised by the multitude: 

8 qui ex his secuti non sunt, in desertorum ac proditorum numero ducuntur, omniumque his rerum postea fides derogatur. 

8 those of them who have not followed are counted among the deserters and traitors, and thereafter all trust is denied to them in all matters. 

9 Hospitem violare fas non putant; qui quacumque de causa ad eos venerunt, ab iniuria prohibent, sanctos habent, hisque omnium domus patent victusque communicatur. 

9 They do not consider it right to harm a guest; those who have come to them for any reason whatever, they protect from injury, hold sacred, and to these the homes of all are open and food is shared.