Why did Tacitus write a favorable portrayal of Arminius in Annals of Imperial Rome even though he was a enemy?

Question

It's wierd, Tacitus almost seems to be praising him, even though Arminius got into some major conflicts with Germinacus and caused lots of trouble for Rome.

Answer 1

Well two reasons I would think.

Firstly, Tacitus was writing around 100 years after the event and probably no longer considered Arminius as an enemy.

Secondly, don't forget that Arminius was a Roman citizen and had been taught soldiering by the Roman Army. Tacitus can use this almost as reflected glory. Three legions may have been lost to Arminius, but it was only because he was Roman that he could have achieved this.

Answer 2

The idea of the noble savage. Tacitus was not alone in this thinking and it didn't begin or die with the romans.

Answer 3

It's not uncommon for people to respect a clever enemy, even though they are still intent on bringing them down. Brilliance inspires respect, no matter who's side you are on.