Corruption metaphor
Tacitus uses a metaphor to describe how "corruption reached its climax" in Roman society. By using this metaphor, he suggests that corruption had reached a pinnacle.
Tiberius metaphor
Tacitus uses a metaphor to describe Tiberius as being "freedom's enemy." This suggests that Tiberius is against freedom, and also makes Taticus' criticism of society clear, by saying that even someone usually against freedom is complaining about the "abject servility."
Nero metaphor
Describing Nero and his narcissistic nature, Tacitus uses a metaphor:
"While the city was burning, Nero had gone on his private stage and... sung of the destruction of Troy."
By describing a "stage," Tacitus suggests that Nero was attention-seeking, but also was not a man of action during this difficult time.
Augustus simile
Tacitus uses a simile to describe how Augustus liked to be treated by his subjects:
"No honor was left for the gods, when Augustus chose to be himself worshipped with temples and statues, like those of the deities, and with flamens and priests."
This passage suggests that Augustus expected his subjects to worship him like a god, giving him plenty of adoration.
Crime metaphor
Again, Tacitus uses a metaphor to illustrate his political arguments, saying that "Crime, once exposed, has no refuge but in audacity." Here, he treats crime as something that is exposed and tries to take refuge, giving this idea a visual dimension.
