Reading response papers - Essay Example

The passage describes the historical evolution of Germany and its people. They have maintained their indigently mainly because they have broadly remained separated as river Rhine has discouraged Gauls and Denube had made it difficult for Raetians and Pannonians to invade Germany. Sarmatians and Dacians have found the mountains daunting. The name Germania had come from Germani, a tribe which was first to cross Rhine and settle here. The people are god fearing and are inclined towards wars and fighting as major activity.

To throw away one’s shield is supreme disgrace and people are known to commit suicide due shame. Merit is key factor for gaining status and even kings have to prove themselves to remain in that position. They place less importance on metals like gold, silver, iron etc. but extensively use their fertile land for cereal crops etc. Their main wealth is under sized live stocks which they value and also use them as trade exchange. They conduct all their public and private business being armed. They believe in monogamy but chiefs can take more wives so as to strengthen tribal power.

The feuds and friendships come as legacy. They have different punishment for varying crimes. They welcome all invited and uninvited guests with same fervour. Gaul, Chatti, Uspi, Tencteri etc. were tribes which initially resided across the rivers and mountains but are now considered within the Germania boundary. Chhatti men do not cut their hair and beard till and wear iron ring as a mark of servitude till they kill a man to repay the debt to their parents. Freedom of Germany is paramount to all Germans which they ensure by being constantly prepared for war.

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