Magnus' History of the Goths

**HISTORY OF THE GOTHS AND SWEDES** by Johannes Magnus, 1553

Translated from Latin and annotated by Ras Feqade, AD 2021 [in progress]

## CHAPTER 3

Thus *Noah* a hundred years after the flood, when the leader *Peleg* was born (as Moses asserts writing in Genesis 10 and 11: he assigns to Shem after the flood until Peleg, a hundred years, and so say Hebræo Catholic authors), he appointed *Shem* in Asia, and *Ham* in Egypt and Africa: whose chief city was Chammin. He appointed *Japheth* meanwhile (who is also called *Atlas Maurus*, and who died in Morocco, as Diodorus suggests in IV) in Europe. He himself presided over the whole world, especially to the west, and to the north (as also Diodorus has in IV).

So too Philo the Hebrew says, writing of the multiplication of the human race, that *Noah* himself with his three sons, and many colonies came to the Black Sea, and on rafts traversed the entire Mediterranean Sea, showing first *Shem* all the Asiatic coast from the Tanais, through the Bosphorus, as far as the Nile of Egypt: and *Chamesis* from the Nile the shore of Africa, up to the narrow part of the ocean and Gadir. *Japheth*, moreover, all the shore of Europe, from Gadir to the Tanais, and each of the provinces near to the shore were divided among the colonies. Ten years after he left the Tanais, he returned to the same place. Back in Scythia, he appointed *Nimbrotus* (also called *Saturn*) King of Babylonia in the 131st year from the deluge (as Berosus said), then he sent several other colonies (which Berosus also mentions) out to the whole world. Finally, after spending the major part of his age from the time of the flood alongside *Scythes*, and many things (again see Berosus) instituting for the best he disposed for posterity, associated with a great multitude of colonies, he arrived in Asia, then in Africa, and the last but for a second time in Italy (where he succumbed to destiny).

[The *Defloratio* text, called (pseudo) Berosus, is the indeed the source for the figure of 131 years for the time from the Deluge to the start of Nimrod's kingdom from the fall of the Tower. The figure of 331 years, derived from *Jubilees*, is the original and correct one, which somehow became 131 in the ancient copy of *Defloratio*, and many other works derived from it.]

Therefore, from the foregoing, many things can be brought together: the first of which is, that all the Scythian and Northern kingdoms can claim for themselves, by the testimony of approved authors, the right to the beginning of human rule after the universal flood: and then, that Sueonia, Gothia, and Finningia, whose histories I have begun to write, were first inhabited by a multitude of mortals wealthier than any settler would have been in the remaining parts of the whole world, especially in the South: by more than 108 years (if the fragment of Cato is believed), those same regions were inhabited before Italy. Chaldea or Babylon, whom Berosus calls the kingdom of kingdoms, and first in the world of lands, nearly 24 years after the first Italian residents, was begun by prince Nimbrotus.

[The celebrated and oft-quoted fragment by Marcus Porcius Cato the Elder (ca. 168 BC) mentioned here, is said to read as follows:

"250 years before Ninus, the earth was overflowed with waters, and humankind was renewed again in Saga Scythia."This information was clearly derived from *Defloratio* or an earlier version of it, since it seems to calculate 131 years from the Deluge to Nimrod, plus 56 years for Nimrod and 62 years for Belus, thus totalling 249 years from the flood to the start of Ninus, who follows Belus there. This suggests that Cato was familiar with the information in *Defloratio* in 168 BC.

Saga was the original name for Armenia after Noah landed there, the Saga people expanded Scythia from there and were later known as Saka. Italy, as Magnus states here, is supposed to have been colonized by Noah 24 years before the Tower fell, ie during the 43 years while it was still being built in Babel (Eridu). This means Italy was colonized by Noah 308 years after the flood, or in around 2447 BC. It is thus a bit of exagerration to say there were 108 years between the settling of Scythia and Scandinavia, and of Italy. Magnus is assuming that Cato's reference to "Saga Scythia" refers to the northern regions, when it means only Armenia, to boast idly here as if Scandinavia was settled the same year the Ark landed -- but the following chapter makes more amply clear this is not the case.]

So much for the first partition of colonies; as much as the sake of my argument it is sufficient to take notice. I now return to the Scythian, and the Northern kingdoms, as I describe their Kings and heroes.

## CHAPTER 4

***Magog***, therefore, grandson of *Noah* from his son *Japhet*, (according to Josephus in the first of his book Antiquities, Chapter 11) was a father and founder of a people of Scythia: and first in it, part of European Scythia, now called Finland, and the kings of the Goths have ruled the East or Tanais, seen to this day; and then, as the people have faith in the country's history, he came across the Venetic sea to Gothia, part of the Scandian peninsula, carried on ships, and a great multitude of associated people, and he named his people from his own name (as again the author is Josephus) Magogas: on whom later the Greeks imposed the name of Scyths. Several too of the Latins attribute, as we have said, the name of Scythia to all of Scandia, but in the native language from the beginning of the nation until now, they were always (as said a little before) called Gethae.

In conclusion, the Latins, after they began to contend with them out of the empire, they often wanted to call them Goths: although it is not rare, and more common in Latin histories to call their name now Goths, now Getae, as we deduce in the context of history. But I think it considered in this place, this *Magog*, to be another from the *Magog*, whom Berosus asserts, was sent with colonies from *Nimbrotus* king of Babylon, or *Saturn*, to Coelosyria where also he established the kingdom and city of Magogibi, that is, the country of *Magog*, around 175 years after the Deluge of *Noah*.

Also the lands here of Gethica entered administration around 88 years from the same flood, except, perhaps, that he reigned among them many years after that: and he established for them a calculation of their times of kingdom and Republic, finally migrated to *Nimbrotus* and Coelosyria, after the example of *Noah* and his sons, who (according to Berosus) settled now in Armenia, now at the mouth of the Don, and finally to Asia, Africa and Italy. Because it was necessary, as these people were princes of the multitude of the human race, who had grown immensely under the north (as we gather from Berosus), they often took care to bring forth to the whole earth.

[Here we get a clearer statement that the kingdom of Gethica was founded by Magog 88 years after the flood, and not in the same year as the flood, when he had not been born. By Magnus' figures, Gethica's founding would be 20 years before Noah settled Italy, and 43 years before the fall of the Tower and Nimrod's kingdom. These last figures were probably the original data from which Magnus calculated 88 years from the flood, but because of the 200 year discrepancy, it was more likely 288 years after the flood that Magog settled in Finland, or in 2467 BC. Note the 43 years from the founding of Gethica to the Tower falling, is the same as the 43 years according to Jubilees when the Tower was being built; thus it may be inferred that Magog established his kingdom in Finland (Juslenius says at Aboa, now Turku) in the same year that the Tower project was begun at Eridu under the three foremen, Nimrod, Joktan and Samothes - 2467 BC. It would appear that Magog and his tribe were first to depart the area of Armenia and Shinar, well before the scattering of nations, and that Turku is the oldest post diluvian settlement in Europe. But nearly all sources from Ireland to Ethiopia, after Philo, do relay that it was only some from the family of Eber, of Arphachsad, who refused to work on the Tower; thus it can be further inferred that Magog and his people participated, not unlikely by transporting yellow amber from the shores of the Gulf of Bothnia, along the waterways of Ukraine and back to Mesopotamia to meet the demand of Nimrod for precious stones, as it is attested in many classical sources as well as Sumerian Enmerkar literature that precious stones were demanded for the tower or ziggurat.]

## Chapter 5

There were for this *Magog* five sons: the first of whom, ***Suenno***, was the founder and ruler of the nation of Sueonica: while the second, ***Gethar***, whom others call *Gogus*, the Gethes, over whom he presided, adapted his name: the remaining three, *Thor*, *German*, and *Ubbo*, faithful ready and compliant, served the rule of their brothers. Thus their authority over the subject people was not much less than if they were designated Kings. Nor at that time was it feared, that there would be any violation of the brothers' bond of grace, or oath taking, on the principle of plurality, or ambition of ruling: for then ran that golden innocent age of life, whereof the most ancient historians and poets, all extol with wonderful and lofty praise.

[Petrus Bertius (AD 1616) assigns 42 years, and Anderson (*Royal Genealogies*, AD 1732) gives 43 years to Magog's rule, meaning Suenno and Gethar succeeded Magog in the same year of the tower's fall, or 2424 BC. The empire of Tuysconia was settled to the south in 2399 BC, and Aventinus includes this Gethar (as "Gothus") among the captains subordinate to Emperor Tuyscon, holding fiefdom over southern Sweden.]

## Chapter 6

***Ubbo*** then, after about 246 years had passed from the universal flood, assuming the place of his brother *Suenno*, obtained rule over the Sueones. By this *Ubbo*, before the time of *Abraham*, was built the city Uppsala, so called from the beginning, as Ubbo's Hall, or situated near the shores of the river Sala: whence long in the course of time the Princes of Sueonia wanted to be called Kings of Uppsala. There the city is located in a pleasant place, not only for men, and princes and kings, but for the high Pontiffs of the Goths, and dedicated from the beginning to the same gods.

[Correcting the figure to 446 years after the flood, means Ubbo succeeded Suenno in 2309 BC. Thus Suenno's reign was 115 years; although Bertius gives 56 to Suenno, then 60 to Gethar, Magnus rather seems to have them ruling concurrently over their respective provinces, Sueonia and Gethica. If Gethar survived Suenno by four years, he ruled as a fief of Tuyscon until 2305 BC, after which the Goths are not mentioned again as part of Tuysconia and presumably became independent of Tuysconia under Gethar's unnamed son.]

## Chapter 7

With *Ubbo* deceased at Uppsala, some years passed, before ***Siggo*** replaced him in the kingdom of the Sueones: who in an opportune place near Lake Meler took care of plans for a town Sigtuna from his name, to be suitable for a fortress, whereby the barbarian Estones, or Finnones, or other Eastern peoples, would be prevented from devastating the fields of Suetica.

[The Estones and Finnones, though called barbarians, must have been offspring of the same Magog. Because of their precedence in migrating so far away even as the tower was begun in Shinar, their dialect must have developed into proto-Finnic early on. In the years following the tower's collapse, proto-Indo-European was constructed by scholars already beginning to study the variance in languages, and was adopted in Aratta Saga, that is Armenia. The Magogites were already speaking proto-Finnic by this time; but with the incorporation of the Goths within Tuysconia 2399-2305 BC, and later Gothic dominance over the Sueones, proto-indo-European and later proto-Germanic were assured as the language of prestige and rule on the Scandinavian side of the Baltic, as well as the notion that their proto-Finnic speaking cousins were 'barbarians'.]

At that time, just as the kingdom of the Assyrians extended over almost all of Asia, under *Ninus* and *Semiramis*, thus, the Hyperboreans, or Scythian men were attempting to propagate their power far and wide. Who if other writers considered them equal with other kingdoms, had no less magnitude in their deeds than Assyria or other powerful kingdoms. In fact, when they meet the talents of the great writers, their facts are celebrated all over the world as the greatest, and the virtue of others, who to do the most, so had (as Sallust says), such to be able to extol in words their excellent character.

It is not believed however, those northerners at all quenched the historians, magnificently in their own exploits, long before Latin letters were invented, and before Carmenta and any Roman arrived with Evander from Greece at the mouth of the Tiber, and the expulsion of the native people taught them rude behavior and letters, the Goths had their letters. In this regard, an indication of extraordinary size and magnitude are the rocks, ancient tombs and caves attached to the Goths: the forms of whose engraved letters are able to to persuade, that before the universal flood, they had been erected there, or a little after the power of the giants. Now these letters are:

(abcdefghiklm
nopqrstuxyz&)
[The rune script Magnus displays here is essentially a very late, mediaeval development of the Norse runic alphabet, as still in use in the remoter parts of Sweden in his own century. It could not be the ancient script from 2200 BC, for it is known that the runes he shows were derived from the earlier Elder Futhark, itself attested no earlier than AD 150, and thought to be based on a northern Italic alphabet, and ultimately, Phoenician.]

With these points, the deeds were delivered an eternal remembrance of men expressed in stone. To wit, although notice of Roman speech, that was not then before the founding of Rome, was absent, yet so much inflamed them to the study of eloquence, and to writing poems of diligence to their countries, so that not only modest children (that Romans after a long time were made writes Cato) to sing the ancient songs, where praises were much, instituted here and there, but also men on flutes sang heavy (as they still do today) on the virtue of famous men: and so great was the honor and reward of doctrine, that most hung on the wise not only scepter and kingdom, but also divine honors. But we affirm something of these later in their places.

We now to return to *Siggo*. Who afterward governed the people under him wisely in war and peace for many years, namely 60, devoted major projects to arms and laws, finally in long old age he passed away at Uppsala the capital, about 412 years from the flood.

[The date of the flood being placed 200 years too late due to *Defloratio*, this should be 612 years or 2143 BC when Siggo passed away. His 60 year reign would thus begin in 2203 BC. Bertius credits his predecessor Ubbo with a reign of 101 years, ie. 2309-2208 BC, thus it would seem about five years passed between the reigns of Ubbo and of Siggo, whose parentage is not mentioned.]

## Chapter 8

Meanwhile, while *Siggo* ruled the Sueones, ***Erik*** was chosen as King of the Goths around 357 years from the flood. This grandson of *Magog* by his son *Gogus* or *Gothor*, or (as others say) great great grandson, not only in the institution of good conduct, but also in love of country, proved illustrious: for he made good and just laws, that age permitted him, and whatever seemed useful to protecting the state of the Gothic Republic, he finally with effort took care to provide. However, accepting the kingdom from his father or grandfather, he ruled in such power, as well as extended it to remote lands, that several of our historians affirm him to be not only the best but the first King of the Goths. In whose time when still lived *Serug*, grandfather of *Abraham*, being so multiplied, that the vast island of Scandinavia (though it can be called another world), could not support an infinite number of them, not a few of them were commanded by King *Eric* himself, who running the golden age so far committed strange deeds, to explore around the islands to the western sun (which in a much later time were called Danica or Cimbrica), and make new settlements in them.

[Adjusting for the error in the date of the flood, 557 years afterward means Erik was elected King in 2198 BC, about the 5th year of Siggo in Sueonia. (Bertius has him starting 10 years after Siggo). Serug grandfather of Abraham was born 2376 BC in Ur, and begat Nahor there in 2319 BC, at age 57, per *Jubilees*. While the Samaritan and Greek texts of Genesis say he was 130, the later Masoretic changed that to 30 years old when he begat Nahor. The Samaritan copy, the best source for the patriarchs' remaining years after begetting, says Serug lived for another 100 years, while Greek and Masoretic say 200. The 200 is less likely to be correct, but if so it is feasible that his life could have overlapped with part of Eric's reign over the Goths in Scandinavia. However, the mention here of Serug, elsewhere described as a pagan Chaldean, is merely an attempt at synchronisation based on what relatively limited information was available to Magnus in the 16th century.]

Thus the new effective inhabitants of those islands, long after they had left the land of the Goths (as their history also attests) settled there without a King. Indeed from this *Erik* until *Danus*, whom they affirm to be their first king in the time of *Gideon*, Judge of Israel, there elapsed about 660 years, and meanwhile they obeyed the Kings or judges of the Goths in their commands, until *Humelus* King of the Goths, (as we say below) imposed on them as king his son, the above mentioned *Danus*.

[The islands of Denmark are said in other sources to have been called Vetala when Erik sent Goths to settle them. Magnus here says they existed without their own kings until Danus -- who seems to have started in 1751 BC, more like 440 years after Erik, and certainly not contemporary with Gideon, 1284-1244 BC. Petreius Hafnienesis in 1547 printed ancient records that show nearby Jutland had already been settled by the Jutes, distinct from the Goths, 91 years after the tower fell, which is in 2333 BC, led directly from Armenia by Gomer II, son of Togarmah, son of Gomer. This would have been when that area was within the dominion of his uncle Emperor Tuiscon, probably the same as Askenaz son of Gomer, who had also come from Armenia and was probably more than happy to settle his Gomerite kin on his uninhabited frontier.]

But to return to *Eric*: if I had more abundant notice of his renowned deeds, I would easily show his kingdom stood out so glorious, how innocent we consider that age to be in our time. All around the country, before the view of all the public , were issued songs in the native language of his deeds since the most ancient times, where in addition to many others, it has sense in the following verse.

[Ballad of Eric, not translated]

Finally after the death of *Erik*, the best times of that golden age preceded too quickly, the matter of the Sueones, who started out to be good, began to decay for the worse, and at last 400 years from the flood, converted to the impious worship of idols...

[Adjusting the date to 600 years after the Flood, this means the Goths adopted idolatry in 2155 BC. Most other nations had already done so; following Tuiscon, the Mannican Empire to the south had abandoned monotheism for paganism in 2248 BC.

The remainder of chapter 8, chapters 9 through 12, and the first part of 13 are not translated at present, containing much sermonizing about paganism, only midway through chapter 13 does he resume the narrative, in Eric I's reign.]

## Chapter 13

[...]

But now returning to the fate of King *Eric*, which occurred about 425 years from the flood, we find that after that, like the Sueones, so too the Goths' Republic began to falter in different ways. Certainly, concord was nonexistent for the Kings of Gothia and Suetia, who contained such a multitude of peoples in tranquility and peace, the dangerous discord at home, and the impious worship of idols, of which we have said, outside an inappropriate hostility prevailed. And this is more time, and with great loss of all the inhabitants, almost 400 years. But the Kings of the Goths, who are remembered in the midst of time, to have reigned successively, are these, ***Uddo, Alo, Othen, Carolus, Biorno, Gethar, Gert***: of whom only the names came to my notice from the public annals. But the Sueones then from this point are said to have been a great part of those eras under judges.

[Erik I's reign thus ended in 2130 BC, 625 years after the flood. The next known date is Beric in 1819 BC. The seven kings listed here ruled Gothica in the intervening 311 years, an average reign length of about 45 years, and they appointed judges for Vetala and Sueonia. However the seventh of these, called here in the text Gert, is elsewhere listed as Siggo II.]

## Chapter 14

***Beric*** then with consent of the community of all the Sueones and Goths, and established monarch of both kingdoms around 836 years from the flood, when he prudently realized, how so many people distracted in so many different wishes; the kings could be saved from civil war.

[Adding the usual 200 to the figure of 836 years from the flood would indicate that Beric united the Swedes and Goths in 1719 BC, however to fit the chronology established from other sources such as Aventinus, this must be adjusted to 1819 BC, or 936 years after the flood.

There were several of them (as happens everywhere) who had long rendered license in massacre, rapine, and every crime most audaciously. This wise prince thought (offered the first time) to exile them from the country's borders. Since, however, he did not wish to do, nor honestly could he, what he had thought, and having assured the execution of weapons, and the power to be able to lead their minds, not to be able to force them, by contracting in the assembly of the nobility and the common people, he reported how in the past few years Estones, Livones, Finningas, Curetes, Ulmerugi, and other powerful nations (although separated from the Gothic shores by a vast sea) were dared by the power of the Goths, ruined in dissension, to make continual war: neither did they seem destined to the purpose, until utterly defeated, they were imposed the yoke of disgraceful servitude. Consequently, if they wanted to be men, they would think rather to take possession of the lands of such proud and obstinate enemies, and to throw down the yoke of perpetual slavery than to remain thrown by them with eternal ignominy. For in this way the clear victors would most justly avenge many injuries inflicted formerly on the nation, and bloody their hands not in other citizens, but in the blood of the enemy. This speech was delivered by the King separately with the people, then the nobles in sentences: when others affirmed from birth only sweetness by no means abandoned, to others it was decided by the King to have to be satisfied by the counsel and command, that a just war against the harsh and cruel enemies of the country be commanded: and he offered once or in one war to wipe out, and to occupy their lands and possessions, rather than return in their eternal fear. In the end, it was decreed by common consent of all, such an army to be prepared, how much could be enough in attacking and reducing those enemy countries, that were possessed by the strongest inhabitants. This decree relating the home to the wives, soon inserting the men's minds in the women's bodies themselves, the women showed no sign of softness in themselves, they emitted no words to draw sadness, nor tears, nor groans, nor shrieks. Of course, accustomed from an early age to the arms of the men little less than they, they led on horse to handle tasks and battles. Not only was he favored by mutual encouragement, but the men themselves applying to arms flamed importunately. And in so few days they had progressed, so they were far fewer, who stay at home, than those who preferred to go out: indeed, if in the multitude of ships he anticipated the former, all the most populous land would otherwise be left in solitude.

Hence the wisdom of the King was opportunely provided, that a sufficient number of inhabitants remain cultivating the land: charging his firstborn ***Humulf*** King, he commanded that he manage all at home and in the country manfully and prudently, and bade him to serve no less with him on a distant expedition.

[Note the narrative of the 'internal' kings of Sweden and Gothia from Humulf onward is resumed in Book Two.]

In this place however some are in error, who affirm that this Gothic people, leaving from the land of birth, occasioned sterility, when even in our time it abounds so much in all things, that hardly elsewhere in all Europe are sold cheaper things of necessary human sustenance.
Also a witness of abundance of all things, is that huge fleets of ships, that every year multiplied the greatest of all things, used to be in all the regions across the sea. But of the famine from wars, not inflicted from the earth, on account of which the Lombards afterwards went forth, we speak below. Now it is enough to show the two main causes of this emigration, namely that he take vengeance from his enemies, and for the Gothic nation to throw itself, as much as physically possible, on foreign kingdoms and lands.

## Chapter 15

All that is necessary for so large an expedition seeming prepared, Beric bade the captains of all the fleets, that they lead a number of ships from the island of Gotlandia (which Jordanes calls Gothiscandia). Hence he took care to send three ships scouting the enemy power, one to diligently examine the shores of Estonia, another Curetes, a third Ulmerugia. But a storm arose, all reached the shores of Ulmerugia, where now the Prussians are settled. Thus incidentally exploring land and inhabitants, the third ship reached Beric; and though it would be more appropriate to go on course to the others, however due to the crew's laziness in advancing slowly, it gave occasion for them to be called Gepanda as an insult henceforth. For the Gothic language calls the slow and inept Gepam as an insult. And so the Gepids, having place from their ship, realizing the laziness of their fathers later was in negligence, they effaced themselves from the foundation of the noble kingdom. Nor were the ambassadors lazy of duty who were in the place of the remaining ships of Beric, leading and urging that all ships go to him without delay, easily about to overcome the affairs of land and people, in whom nothing seemed too difficult for conquest. It was no longer expected: and the Goths (as Jordanes says) went forth into Europe erupting like a swarm of bees. The year then according to Hebrew truth was 2431 from the creation of the world, from the Flood moreover 875, and 1430 BC, when the children of Israel were ruled by Judge Othniel (per Albertus Crantzius). The Ulmerugi then sensed why so packed and unusual a fleet should have approached, and thus firmed up by mutual exhortation, they determined beforehand to shed blood and life, rather than let their enemy take possession of their dearest homeland. Accordingly the Goths from the start held to the beach, experiencing a difficult wargame. But later regaining strength, they whom the storms of the sea had not a little ruined, they saved hands in a great attack and with fearless minds, victors, yet not escaping without bloodshed. But they could not rejoice, occupying the lovely places and happy settlements: indeed strangers were those farmers, who survived the war, when they saw so many of the Goths unequal in power, they immediately burnt the houses, villages and towns, then seeking safety in flight, they repaired to the interior of Vandalia. And so the Goths came into possession of a vacant and laborious land, leading wives and children from the ships, appointed cultivation of the fields, again raising houses and villages, and bore arms so powerfully against neighboring provinces, Pomerania, Magnopolia, that in a short time they subjected the greater part of the great Vandals to his government. In all that time of seven kings who dwelt in Ulmerugia, they never ceased from the tumult of wars. For if he appeared without any enemy, they were seeking at home and in the country, for they were led nothing better, than to keep watch in arms, and to exercise military life through constant study.

[Jordanes relates the following about this king:

*Now from this island of Scandza, as from a hive of races or a womb of nations, the Goths are said to have come forth long ago under their king, Berig by name. As soon as they disembarked from their ships and set foot on the land, they straightway gave their name to the place. And even to-day it is said to be called Gothiscandza. Soon they moved from here to the abodes of the Ulmerugi, who then dwelt on the shores of Ocean, where they pitched camp, joined battle with them and drove them from their homes. Then they subdued their neighbors, the Vandals, and thus added to their victories.*Aventinus mentions king Beric, calling him Berreich in Chapter 9, and Gebreich in Chapter 64. In Chapter 9 he states: "*From [Gotland], the Goths (in Latin Getae and Goti) after many years (when kings Haun, Norein, and Baiger the sons of King Alman, the German Hercules, came to Germania) migrated with their kings Berreich and Vilmer to the Danube and the river Theisa*". This was during a civil conflict for the throne of Germania among Alman's rival sons and their partisans, which can be dated ca. 1783-1758 BC. Assuming Beric came to the German state of Rugia 975 years after the Deluge, would put his arrival in 1780 BC. Beric ruled Sweden for 39 years, 1819-1780 BC, leaving it to Humulf while continuing to lead these 'External Goths' or Getae. Magnus' computation of 2431 *Anno Mundi* for when Beric left Gothia to Humulf, is not consistent with the date of 2533 A.M. for Humulf given by Bertius and Anderson.

Vandalia was another province of Germania by then, Pomerania would be the remaining, western part of Rugia, and Magnopolia or Greater Poland would refer at that time to the Wends, the later Ruthenians. Vilmer, that is Filimer, is the later king who finally brought the Getae to the Black Sea by about 1705 BC.]

## Chapter 16

***Gaptus***, after the death of Beric (witness Methodius and Jordanes) succeeded in the kingdom of the Goths: who commanded seeking and propagating the rules of war, studying to keep power and weapons. Since, just as the nations, whom Beric had reduced under subjection, strove for nothing more earnestly, than to recover the loss of their freedom, so he thought it necessary to provide all intelligence and diligence, lest they cast off the yoke of subjection, that the princes raise free ones from servants, from subjects. And no less did his mind begin worrying about the continuation and domestic tumult of his Goths. Of course, just as in their own country a tumult was stirred up, and they kept doing the business of their princes, so elders in a strange land, observing the customs imbibed by their ancestors, showed the sky, not changing their minds. At last this Gaptus was fated in being destroyed by arms, the authors whom I follow being silently reserved.

[From the first external king Berig crossing the Baltic to Ulmerugia in 1780 BC, to the seventh, Filimer reaching the Black Sea in 1705 BC, there are 75 years, of which we may provisionally estimate the first 5 for Beric, and the remaining 70 years divided among the next five kings with an average reign of 14 years. Hence we may assign Gaptus to approximately 1775-1761 BC.

Jordanes named Gapt as the earliest ancestor in his genealogy of the Amali Ostrogoths, but he does not mention him ruling the Getae as Berig's successor.]

## Chapter 17

***Augis***, the bravest of the Goths (as Jordanes claims), Gaptus having died, was set as King of the Goths: whose grave business of wars against the strongest Curetes is related to have occurred. For, themselves neighbors of the Ulmerugi toward the eastern sun, when they decided their fortifications were enough, the strongholds of rivers and forests, hindering marshes, they contended for leadership to eject the Gothic people: not that they were oppressed by him with heavy and intolerable tribute, but that they were brought to an indecorous and indelible reproach, to have a life subject to the decision of an alien people. Yet this effort, as it was excited by a rash mind, so it failed to bring a happy result. For to the contrary, the Curetes advancing against Augis and the Goths, fought bravely and with determined minds, and acting strenuously first in the part of battle they killed this King Augis, though they could not free themselves and homeland from that infamy of subjection. For soon the Goths placing in command of the vacant kingdom Amalus, the tallest and noblest of their order, viz. Augis' son, they extorted victory from the hands of the enemy, whom it seemed fortune had favored too much.

[Augis is provisionally assigned to the years 1761-1747 BC based on average reign lengths. Jordanes lists him as the son of Hulmul, son of Gapt; if this is correct, Augis was the grandson of his predecessor. His father Hulmul seems distinct from Beric's son Humulf who during this time continued to rule Sweden 1780-1751 BC.]

## Chapter 18

***Amalus*** therefore, son of the deceased Augis, fourth after Beric in the order of Kings of the Goths, governed and increased the Republic itself so diligently and industriously, that he not only equaled, but plainly surpassed the princes (though renowned for exploits) of an earlier age. For with the Curetes, after losing (as we have said) freedom, things once more accommodated all works, and they joined themselves to a rebellious alliance with the untamed Estonian people, Amalus, so he could break the conspiratorial alliance of the enemy, sending messages to Gotilla King of the Goths and Swedes, grandson of Beric (of whom see below), excited him against them in battle. And thus in the communion of the two strongest Kings, they again delivered the arms of the Estones, Curetes and Magnopolenses into the victorious hands of the Gothic Empire, taking on the shoulders the twin yoke for simplicity. Indeed afterwards they were subjected to submission as slaves not only to Amalus, but of Gotilla. Nor is it a rare occurrence, that in their time the father of a family of one of the Kings, and his son, or servant, would be obliged to obey the other without any indulgences. From this most ancient King of the Goths, the famous family of Amals in Spain is said to have origin, who produced from themselves not only the most illustrious chiefs, but the most powerful and best Kings and Pontiffs, as I shall follow more widely below.

[Amalus ruled the external Goths ca. 1747-1733 BC, while Gotilla ruled the Swedish empire 1742-1702 BC. Jordanes agrees that Amalus is son of Augis, adding he is the father of Hisarnis, father of Ostrogothus, under whom the split with the Visigoths occurred in the 3rd century AD. Clearly there were more generations in the nearly 2000 years separating Amalus and Ostrogothus than just that of Hisarnis; evidently Hisarnis and Ostrogothus maintained a now-lost pedigree of descent from Amalus who had lived 2000 years earlier.]

## Chapter 19

***Baltus*** or Galtus, Amalus having died, succeeded in the kingdom: whose deeds, if antiquity has faithfully transmitted perfect knowledge to posterity, have supplied us not a brief history, but books of the stories of his government, which was conducted with varying fortune. Indeed, in his time the domestic disturbance among the Goths came to such a mutiny, that the Gepids, either voluntarily or by force, were compelled to withdraw from them, and seek for themselves a new settlement (where Wallachia now is). Not much time later, subduing neighbors they coalesced in a great multitude, and appointing themselves a King, they began to be a formidable terror not only to the Vandals, but to the Goths. Nor is it silently implicated, that just as from the family of Amals, royal pedigrees flowed forth from a long and splendid orderly succession among the Ostrogoths, so too in turn from the famous generation of Balts did the Visigoths appoint themselves to take priests and kings, as I shall endeavor to explain further below. However I think it should be noted, that Baltus is originally Galtus, that is, called Verres. This can be persuaded by the most ancient and noble Gylts, that is, the Verres family, who still persist today with the Visigoths, from whom I also take origin in the second paternal line (as I got from my parents).

[Baltus, ca. 1733-1719 BC, is the ancestor of the following kings, and founder of the Balthic dynasty.]

## Chapter 20

***Gadaric*** then, son of Baltus, by common consent of the Goths, was set upon the throne of the kingdom, who deserved to be depicted as worthy of the cognomen "the Great" (as Jordanes, Rodericus, Toletanus, and Albertus Crantzius attest), in the matter of the magnitude of his deeds. Great indeed he was, the very most powerful to govern the nation of Goths. But he was greater, the minds of the subjected nations never or rarely being in agreement, to recall from domestic mutiny, which under the previous king Baltus had gathered beginning or alleviation, and to contain those recalled in peace and unity. And he was the greatest to the neighboring and powerful peoples, on whom he not only avenged himself in perfect freedom, but repressed and overcame, they having striven to utterly abolish the Gothic name. For (as we have said) the Gepids, mindful of injury having been brought to themselves from the Goths, and adding themselves in whatsoever they could to the Scythian and Vandal peoples, levied war on the Goths, and so much that they would pursue determined minds, so that at one and the same moment one would think them determined and brought in. Nor was any war so bitter and dangerous undertaken previously on the Goths. Indeed they had often fought before from fortune and land: but now a more bitter fight was sharply driven from security and freedom. In whom with the Vandals valor would become so clear, that it could tenaciously resist the power of the Goths by adjudicating, finally agreed on each other's behalf, so that the Vandals, restored to liberty, would not be subjects, but have allies in the Goths. Then Gadaric extended his arms and strength even to Scythia: who when they were hardly prepared for battle, were defeated with minimal difficulty. But it was not so easy to keep a strong nation in subjection, as it was easy to fight one suspecting nothing adverse. For returning to Gadaric with him in his Ulmerugia, not much after he passed away, the Scythians, who bore the imposition of the Goths too impatiently, wishing to cast away the yoke, unanimously considered a glorious death preferable to servitude and disgrace: and would hasten performing what they thought, so that this came close, but they would have oppressed the Goths, disturbed by the recent funeral of Gadaric, had they not averted sudden danger by a sudden council, by hastening the election of the new King Filimer.

[Gadaric ruled ca. 1719-1705 BC. Jordanes mentions Gadaric the Great only as father of Filimer. We can gather that the Gepids joined the Vandals and Scythians in a coalition against the Goths, who defeated them, however any claims that Gadaric thereby brought the vast territory of Scythia into Gothic subjection are surely exaggerated; indeed it seems implied rather, by a careful reading of the Latin, that by the time Gadaric died in Ulmerugia, the Scythian warriors were on the verge of overrunning them there, when his newly elected successor Filimer abandoned Ulmerugia to them, taking the Getae on another migration by fighting their way to their new home on the Black Sea.

Petreius' account says Velmer or Helmer, who seems to be the same as Filimer, is the son of Vesta, daughter of Dan, king of the Jutes and original Cimbri, who allegedly subdued the Getae. Vesta and Dan are identified as descendants of Togarmah, however Dan also seems to be a match for Dan, first king of the Danes from 1751 BC, and son of Humbel of Sweden according to Magnus and Saxo, presumably from the stock of Magog. At any rate, it has been surmised that Vesta of the Jutish line was the queen of Gadaric of the Getae, as Filimer their son seems to have been heir to both.]

## Chapter 21

***Filimer*** therefore, son of Gadaric, would not only imitate, but also surpass his father the Great's magnificent deeds, so that he is rightly considered by all, the heir of the kingdom as much as the magnificent name. For when he discovered the Scythians lacking liberty, wanting to recover their swords and arms, and to throw back the servitude shaken from their necks onto the shoulders of the Goths, and this to attempt (as is said) an attack on them so hastily, that no assault advanced against them would be more pernicious, than delay and procrastination: therefore he so suddenly prepared himself on the most powerful of enemies, that one of the same days he came to impose on them kingship, dignity, and the inevitable necessity of war. Truly because in so sudden and unforeseen a motion, he would not be given to do the choice of the soldiers, he urged the whole Gothic nation, who were suitable for arms, to take up arms in earnest. Whose command was fulfilled so eagerly, that none in the household would be allowed to exclude himself from so public and necessary an expedition: rather, so many more women than men being armed faster than could be believed, and they forced children of non combatant age to wagons, to be certain of occupying themselves in this battle or a glorious death, or occupying a settlement not at all barren, putting the enemy to flight. But it is not credible to me, that only in hope of fertility, they wanted to hurry to the Scythian wastelands by such a decision, as a few claim. Would it be the sands of Scythia, or the pathless marshes the most fertile of the Rugians, Obotrites, Magnopolenses, Pomeranians, Prussians, Ulmerugians, Poles that would be the land chosen first? But it was those of war, and the effort of fighting ardor, who were always attributed the highest military strength among other virtues.

[The Goths would not be the only nation arming its women at this time, since following the Germanic civil war among the sons of Alman (1783-1758 BC) as related by Aventinus, an army of women led by Hacs was raised in Bavaria to invade the Balkans and Anatolia, even as her husband Theur, one of Alman's sons, led the Cimbri or Kempfer warriors north of the Black Sea, where Filimer's Goths would soon be operating as well. These armies from Germany around the Black Sea became known as the Amazons and their husbands, the Cimmerians, who would federate with the Goths under Tanausis (1660 BC), following Filmer and Theur.

Jordanes mentions that Filimer banished certain sorceresses from his army into the distant wilderness, where they mated with 'evil spirits', becoming ancestors of the later Huns. Aventinus says the Huns came from Haun, another son of Alman who had recently taken his people to Haunia, that is Oiom. A completely different ancient origin is given in Korean annals for the Xiong-nu, who perhaps became known as Huns only after occupying Haunia in the early centuries AD.]

## Chapter 22

Thus excited here in the heat of war, they advanced with Filimer in full and resolute minds against the approaching Scythians, to leave vacant extensive lands hitherto possessed. However the Samagetae, who lived farther from the shores of the Sarmatian Sea and thereby slower to learn to make implements of war, remained in their settlements, and they continue today. This great and invincible multitude of Scythians were defeated and crushed after the bitterest war: nor did the Goths rest, before they reached as far as the Maeotic marshes. Here when, scattered by the arms of the inhabitants, Filimer thought them reassembled, he built a bridge with great effort, and there caused the entire forces to cross to the other bank. But when he was amidst the effort, and so many had seemed crossing to rest, as many were already across, he from industry, and as secretly as it could be done, he took care to destroy that bridge, and spread fame of that case, not to have happened on purpose. The King then thought it prudent, that divided settlements were more convenient than they occupy together. What others also write, that the bridge had so fallen, that the rest was irreparable, inspires little faith with me. For the same men for the same work, where the same will is absent, if not easy, yet succeeded importunately. But it was necessary sometimes to rest after so many journeys, and to console with quiet for those of weaker age. Thus two peoples soon emerged from one, who finally reduced under their rule the whole of Scythia, the vastest part of all the world, before called (witness Jordanes) Ouim, and long to continue in subjection. For those who remained on this side of the marshes, the foremost of all their Scythian lands, who behind their back had attained a long and wide tract extending as far as the Venetic sea, or Sarmatian, or Estonian: surely those who crossed the bridge with King Filimer, though they found the desire of soil where they would conveniently assemble themselves, yet when the most powerful Spali people were nearby, who were hitherto invincible, and terrible to the other Scythians, they first set up their ability to experience power against them (witness Ablabius). But neither was that people quiet in defeat, until at last all the victors reached to the distant parts of Scythia near the Pontic sea.

[Jordanes likewise has Filimer and the Goths migrating to Lake Maeotis (the sea of Azov) and part of Scythia known as 'Oium', after defeating the Spali. However Aventinus paints a slightly different picture. In Chapter 64 he describes this movement, together with that of Beric dated to 1780 BC, as follows:

*The first group migrated from the Gotland island, lying over the Vistula, north of Denmark, with their kings Gebreich and Vilmer, they came through the kingdom, now called Poland, then Haunreich, to the Danube and Theissa, and settled there. They are called by the Romans Daci, by the Greeks Gotæ, by the Germans Goths, Danauer, Dunkauer, Dackauer from the Danube. They lived there for 1881 years to the time of Emperor Valens. Then they were driven across the Danube into the Roman Empire by the Huns, as I will describe in the other book, they then caused much trouble to the Romans. Their abandoned land on the Danube is now called Hungary, Transylvania, Würzerland and Wallachia.*Haunreich refers to the lands of Haun, son of Alman, explained in Chapter 62 as initially being beyond the Vistula, but ending up being between the Dniester and Dnieper, and on Maeotis. We may infer that as the Goths pushed through Haun's territory, the name of Haunia or Oium finally came to designate the latter region.

The second great migration described in Chapter 64 is that of Theur and Hacs with the Cimbri and Amazons, first into Illyria. The Amazons then continue into Asia Minor, while the Cimbri move along the north side of the Black Sea as far as Maeotis. In fact they had probably already reached this area somewhat before the Goths under Filimer reached the Black Sea. Note that Aventinus rather has the Goths ending up in Dacia, modern Romania, and the Cimmerians or Cimbri on Maeotis. The Goths allegedly told Valens in AD 376 they had been in Dacia 1881 years, which would calculate to 1505 BC, but if this is adjusted to 2081 years, or 1705 BC, it produces a better fit for Filimer's celebrated arrival on the Black Sea. The Getae and Cimmerians (and the Amazons) were united under Filimer's son Tanausis in 1660 BC; Filimer's reign is thus dated 1705-1660 BC.]

Having conquered them they divided themselves: some subdued all of Egypt, which even Herodotus Halicarnassus mentions, others granted the east to the leadership of Amalus, others the west to Valtus. From those assigned to east, fleeing to Scythia, the rest of the Scythian kings emerged. Irenicus writes thus in his Germanica Book 6 chapter 2.

[All of these events last referred to, should be placed one or two thousand years after Filimer, and seem added here only for embellishment.]

## Chapter 23

Thus the first of the more memorable seats of the Goths in Scythia was on the Pontic Sea: hence the people now had more of a name, hence they were called Scythians, that is, the vanquishers of the Scythians. However it is not denied that they would be called sometimes Scythians, sometimes Goths or Getae. Rather, by the diversity of languages whereby they ruled, just as in the homeland they were called Vestrogetae, that is Western Getae, and Ostrogetae, that is Eastern Getae, so too in foreign lands, and in foreign tongues, they would be called now Samagetae, now Massagetae, who Strabo in book 11 claims are Eastern Goths, now finally Tirsagetae. Therefore both Greeks and Latins called those Goths not rarely by indiscriminate names of those peoples in turn. And Paulus Orosius testifies the same in Bk 1. So (he says) these Getae are now the Goths, whom Alexander reported avoiding, Pyrrhus dreaded, even Caesar declined etc. Moreover Procopius of Vittige staying in Rome said: Then indeed the Roman citizens brought forth in their midst the sayings of the Sibyls, asserting the city to be in danger until the month of July, and at last Rome would fear nothing from Getica. Indeed affirming the nation of Goths to be Getica, and many others both ancient and recent the same thing, for example Dion the Greek, who explained things in his history titled On Getica. Moreover Jordanes the Goth in his History calls them now Goths, now Getae. And Paulus Diaconus affirms the Gothogetae in the Life of Narses. Even if I deserve my experience in such a belief, I can testify to calling what is to me Goths Ostrogetae, because of being called in Latin Ostrogoth. Of course, in the homeland we call them Gethas since the most ancient times, whom the Latinate speech had used to call Goth. Nor does Herodotus the father of history dissent from these indiscriminate names, who affirmed the Massagetes, that is the Ostrogoths, to have expelled the Scythians from their settlements, then the inhabitants to have driven the advance to Cimmeria, and to have held settlements. Which also Raphael Voluterranus Bk 7 witnesses from Strabo, and Homer mentions in Odyssey 10, that they arrived from the farthest west. What was most truly done by the Goths occupying Cimmeria, no one well versed in history is ignorant of. Ptolemy also mentions this opinion: the Massagetes, he says, had settled in Central Asia in the region of Scythia. Thus, if the prudent reader will not realize, the Goths and Getae to be the same people, he will never correctly understand them to be called by the conquered people sometimes Scythians, sometimes Cimmerians or Thracians, in Gothic or Scythic histories. In fact, in the life of king Filimer the Great, after they drove out the Cimmerians, they would be called not only Cimmerians, but also Scythians, a name absorbed from the occupied land. Which victory Herodotus later tells, not content to expel the Cimmerians from their settlements, but he states they went out following in such ardor and rage that they could not come from a journey to discern what was happening. Indeed the Cimmerians in seeking safety in flight, and in running through to the left side of the Taurus mountains, the Getae, going to the right of the same mountains, reached the Pontus. Thence they returned again to Cimmeria, wherein they remained where this Filimer ruled them all the while, inasmuch as their empire would follow the whole of Scythia far and wide.

[The claim that the Goths occupied all of the vast realm of Scythia is scarcely feasible. The Celtoscythians had invaded the lands north of the Black Sea from Celtica (Gaul) centuries earlier and called the whole region Celtoscythia, considering it part of Scythia, although most of this region had not historically been Scythian before that. The Goths more probably settled in Romania which by then was considered part of Celtoscythia.

The original Cimbri, according to Petreius, had made their way to Jutland before 2300 BC under Gomer II, son of Togarmah. A later German Emperor, Gamber is also said to have given his name to the Cimbri or Kempfer, German for warrior, and used Jutland for their training ground. It is possible that Jutland had already been known as Cimbria before Gamber, but that after him their connection with a warrior caste became established. Theur is said to have led the Cimbri warriors to the area from Dniester to Maeotis. However Filmer is also said to be heir to the Jutish or Cimbri throne through his mother Vesta. The personal union of Goths and Cimmerians thus may have begun with Filmer rather than his son, though Magnus seems here to depict them as adversarial. The Bavarian Amazons were active in Asia Minor by now, though Gothic and Cimmerian contingents would no doubt be included in their theatre of operations after they were all allied.

The Massagetae were a group in Scythia of an entirely different origin to the Getae, being from Gether son of Aram, not Gether son of Magog, but they would be confused in later accounts.]

## Chapter 24

The life of Filimer having ended, when it was 995 years after the flood, and 1310 BC, **Tanausius** would be constituted King of the Goths. At that time Vexores, or (as Diodorus thinks) Sexoses, King of Egypt, conqueror of all the eastern nations, when he realized there is no king, or people, or nation to the eastern or western sun, nor indeed in the southern region, whose power he feared, he believed himself able to obtain the monarchy of the whole world, if he subjected the northern Goths, or Scyths, to his rule. And so arousing all the peoples subject to him, about to make war on the Goths, he sent envoys, who threatened and foretold to them either right of submission, or immediate danger of war. This preparation of the most powerful king was not completely unknown to the Scythians. Indeed they had learned to be more of men in themselves, than of power, and more in particular than a formidable thing to them. Wherefore to the envoys threatening conditions of hard servitude, they responded roughly: it is to wonder (they said) from what so happy and powerful a King now began madness, as to dare and want to be against the peaceful and harmless, and the poor, to sustain a war provoked by no injury, which they were fearing more in their own homes: and who pondered more the use of the uncertain fortune of war, than the reward of victory, and no apparent losses. So saying they seized their weapons in unison. Nor could the envoys so quickly circle to return, lest in tracking them the Goths would follow like the fastest torrent: and this king of Egypt with all his multitude was nearly overwhelmed by so unexpected an attack by the approaching enemy, had he not sought safety in a rapid flight. This flight was a much more shameful sign, because a rich king by the poor one, the glorious by him whom he thought contemptible, the proud by the humble, was forced not only to flee, but to flee shamefully. Indeed with all his army, and leaving his war equipment behind, and destroyed in Phasis province, he retreated bewildered to his own home, not knowing whether he would be immediately despoiled of life and all his own things, who had formerly tried to conquer foreigners rashly.

[The date indicated for the accession of Tanausius, corrected to 1095 years after the flood, equates to 1660 BC. Aventinus mentions him in chapter 69, saying as follows: *And I find that at this time the Germans and their relatives overran Asia with king Thanhauser, called Thanausis in Greek, whom the Goths and Germans worshiped for a god in Transylvania.* He then credits the defeat of the Egyptian Sesosis to Thanhauser's contemporary, the Amazon queen Schmirein (Smyrna). Later in Chapter 72 he mentions 'Danhauser' as still ruling the Cimmerians in the reign of Emperor Adalger (from 1646 BC).

Jordanes says:

*This was the region where the Goths dwelt when Vesosis, king of the Egyptians, made war upon them. Their king at that time was Tanausis. In a battle at the river Phasis (whence come the birds called pheasants, which are found in abundance at the banquets of the great all over the world) Tanausis, king of the Goths, met Vesosis, king of the Egyptians, and there inflicted a severe defeat upon him, pursuing him even to Egypt...*Sesostris, aka Senusret III, had indeed conquered the lands north of the Black Sea ca. 1880 BC and left an Egyptian colony at Colchis, on the river Phasis, as told by Diodorus. Vesosis must therefore have been a later king of Colchis who fought the Cimmerians and Goths on the Phasis, despite the greatly exaggerated and embellished account given here.]

## Chapter 25

However Sesoses is made secure and invincible, not by his or their power, but because the difficult and pathless marshes prevented the Goths from Egypt. To whom repressed by obstacles, they extended arms in the width of Asia: for they thoroughly loaded revenues, less in imposition of tribute and more in the title of empire, than in the reward of victory. For then they thought true victory is achieved, when they might be illuminated more by great and splendid things, than by the sordid riches of tribute. Delighted by the amenities of Asia, they decided to make a permanent settlement here: and they spent a whole fifteen years pacifying and arranging their borders, until they were recalled to their own by the importunate prayers of their wives, in affirming their envoys, neither returning an offshoot sought from the borders, nor allowing that the posterity of the Goths be extinguished by women. Thus Tanausius conqueror of all peoples and nations, was forced to return to the Gothic lands overcome by the prayers of the women. But there were several in his army who, when they had neither wives nor children at home, and they saw the charming lands of Asia, captivated by their beauty they begged the King, that he would permit them to plan a settlement there. Which when just as quickly they considered denied and requested, they made Serinus King of the Medes, whom they knew to be most pleasing to Tanausius, an advocate for the importunate prayers, and so they obtained what they had coveted. But when the others more reluctantly bore their separation, the departings would follow in clamour, and they called them in their language Parthians, (which rendered in Latin means runaways or fugitives or timid), indeed with a just name. Now after they fled their homeland, and founded the Parthian kingdom, and reported the Gothic strength in splendid deeds, then they first emerged victors in battles, when they would be thought timid and runaways. Thus it was received in a proverb, Parthians defeating having fled. They were always adversaries not only to the neighboring kings and kingdoms, but to the Roman Empire, and they would use bow and arrow with such force and industry, that for no other art or virtue were they equally fearsome. For in flight they would fling arrows at pursuing enemies, indeed a kind of cowardly, yet strong and daring thing. The first of their alliances, before they became a kingdom, was with the Medes and their king Sorinus, on whom Tanausius transferred a most generous donation of the leadership of all the peoples he had subdued, content with the reward of glory, in comparison to which he thought gold and silver vile and abject. Having returned to Scythia from this great triumph, he began with every effort to restore pristine happiness to all parts of his kingdom that were slipping by his absence. Nor had he stopped from the beginning, until he was taken by death into the number of admirable heroes, even regarded among the deities. Indeed the Goths thought it right that he would be taken among the stellar mansions, who strove to benefit more to the subjected populace than to himself, and used victory in moderation to the enemy, that he remove nothing from them except license in doing evil.

[This is expanded on Jordanes, who continues as follows:

*Had he not been restrained by the waters of the impassable Nile and the fortifications which Vesosis had long ago ordered to be made against the raids of the Ethiopians, he would have slain him in his own land. But finding he had no power to injure him there, he returned and conquered almost all Asia and made it subject and tributary to Sornus, king of the Medes, who was then his dear friend. At that time some of his victorious army, seeing that the subdued provinces were rich and fruitful, deserted their companies and of their own accord remained in various parts of Asia. From their name or race Pompeius Trogus says the stock of the Parthians had its origin. Hence even to-day in the Scythian tongue they are called Parthi, that is, Deserters. And in consequence of their descent they are archers--almost alone among all the nations of Asia--and are very valiant warriors. Now in regard to the name, though I have said they were called Parthi because they were deserters, some have traced the derivation of the word otherwise, saying that they were called Parthi because they fled from their kinsmen. Now when Tanausis, king of the Goths, was dead, his people worshipped him as one of their gods.*The claim that Tanausis subdued "most of Asia" cannot be taken literally, but as ruler of the combined Goths and Cimmerians, it seems he subdued some lands east of the Don, at the time considered the limit of Asia. This probably consisted of little more than the land between the Don and Colchis, Alania or Circassia. The name Circassia could feasibly come from Celtoscythia.

The Parthians first appear in records in the 8th century BC, but on the far side of the Caspian, and there seems little else to confirm the supposed Gothic origin for them.]

## Chapter 26

Those providing a king of the Goths for the deceased Tanausius, were carried in diverse opinions. Part advised substituting a king as soon as possible: part insisted on not allowing the sum of the whole Republic to be of one prince, but an innumerable host of many commanding princes: part would complain of the excessive generosity toward Sorinus King of Medes, who acquiring so many peoples and lands at great risk to Gothic blood, subjected and was given more easily than wisely: part urged the same countries to be attacked again by force and arms. And this part not only urged but persuaded the whole multitude, who spending the whole time in battle, learned to cultivate arms more than fields. Therefore they spread war far and wide to the commanders and leaders. And when they exercised only the most remote campaign outside the homeland, they attacked their homeland of neighboring peoples taking up devastating arms, promising them an easy victory in the absence of men. But the manly ones learned courage to be in the women of the Goths also. Of whom the frailty of the ignored sex suddenly took up arms, and so carried the attack on the enemy, that many of the same affected by shame were compelled to take flight. Indeed it was a shame for brave men to be overcome, driven off, killed by women. But infamy and eternal contempt returned accepting a heavier disgrace to them who were penetrated by so frail a sex. Surely he who fell more in the enemies brave mind, it would be more prepared to him in strength of mind in invincible women: who now began to be fearsome not only to them who were defeated, but to all the surrounding regions, and brought together them now subjected, the glorious Amazon beginning by chance in a kingdom.

[Jordanes: *After his death, while the army under his successors was engaged in an expedition in other parts, a neighboring tribe attempted to carry off women of the Goths as booty. But they made a brave resistance, as they had been taught to do by their husbands, and routed in disgrace the enemy who had come upon them. When they had won this victory, they were inspired with greater daring.*]

## Chapter 27

But it should be noted that some authors assert, the same Amazons to have come forth from Scythia, while others claim them and the Goths to share an origin, just as Trogus Pompeius, and his epitomist Justin, who call them Scythians. Though after Orosius made mention of them, he switched to Gothic matters, showing them in context to be of Gothic origin. Indeed Bk 1 Chap 16 openly admits the same to have been women of the Goths, and to have destroyed a major part of the world with great slaughter: whom also in the same book Chap 14 he calls Scythians. Even Jordanes following his authors, Dion the Greek, Ablabius the Goth, expressly affirms the same to have proceeded from the Goths. Thus Abertus Crantzius easily dispels this apparent controversy in his Gothic History, affirming the Goths, from the defeat of Scythia, to have contracted the name of the land, not the origin. And I think it considered, the name of Scythia not always to have been of their own Northern lands, which were originally (as stated) called Ovim, according to Jordanes. Thenceforth from the continual practice of archery they are called Scythians: which in the Gothic language designates perished by the art of archers. And so it would be a very broad and general name of many nations, not particular to any people or nation: even so I would not ignore Berosus naming Scythia from Scytha grandson of Noah, the Greeks indeed changing them formerly called Magoges to the name of Scythians, as Josephus testifies in Antiquities Bk I. But I leave free judgement to the reader. I may perhaps in this place for the same reason complain of the Latin writers: because the same Josephus in his same first book of Antiquities, justly reprimands the Greeks, that for their own caprice they had corrupted the names of several people to their own inflexion. For when strange names are forcefully applied in the Latin language, they indeed produce a more eloquent locution, but not always a truer one. But they remain in this way. Let us return to the Amazons: whose origin is learned from the most ancient historians of the homeland. While the Goths lived with the Cimmerians, and wanted to provide for the vacant kingdom after the death of the King, apparently there is a domestic and dangerous dispute among them from changing the King: which only strengthened, so that again the matter must be passed, not by counsel and persuasion, but by arms. For two youths of royal blood, ***Filinus*** and ***Solaphitus***, sustained by help from the vast crowd, disputed being chosen King by their vote. But when in the midst of their effort, they were in such danger, that neither in themselves, nor on the part of the other chiefs, could they be transferred the royal majesty, they left the same homeland either forced by the main faction, or provoked by spontaneous will, with the whole multitude adhering to them, and also with spouses and children. Nor did they rest at first, until occupying Pontic Cappadocia by force and arms, they found a settlement in the plain of Themiscyra beside the Thermidon river. But they were not permitted to enjoy the settlement with equal duration and pleasantries. For when the neighbors had learned, they held themselves and their goods in a place of their own, nor would it be safe to decide in open war their power against the invincible, they attacked and killed them in constructed ambushes.

[Filinus and Solaphitus are not mentioned by Jordanes, nor by Aventinus, but this episode can be dated to ca. 1644 BC, at the end of Tanausis' reign, and 15 year occupation from the Don to the Phasis, and the beginning of rule by their widows, Marpesia and Lampeda, over the Amazons as well as the Getae and Cimmerians.

The territory they are now said to have occupied, Pontus to the Thermidon river, was known to the Hittites as the Kashka land. It was around ten years before this time that king Pithana of the Anatolian city state of Kushara had seized Kanesh, former center of the Assyrian trade of metals for textiles. His son Anitta went on to add Hattusas, Zalpa and Burushanda to this realm, founding what is called the Hittite Empire. This represents a newly arrived people who brought an Indo European language, however from this time it began, in the Hittite state, to be written with Assyro-Sumerian cuneiform signs. The arrival of Indo-European language in Anatolia seems connected with the Amazon-Cimmerian conquests in Luwia; the name Pithana recalls that of Pitane, one of the Libyan Amazons of Myrina who had campaigned in Asia Minor some 500 years earlier. We may wonder if Pithana and Anitta were really renegade female rulers posing as kings. However the Hittite's imitation of Assyrian writing and 'civilized' ways meant the not so literate occupants of Kashka came to be seen as wild barbarians. Anitta's state was also perhaps the earliest to adopt iron implements, as iron smelting had only been discovered on Crete ca. 1680 BC.

I have left Chapter 28 untranslated, as it contains further composition in Latin concerning the Amazons, but presents no real historical data.]

## Chapter 29

But it is not believed, however, the multitude of women to have been a long time without laws or without a leader, and to have conducted so many remarkable deeds without previous leaders. Therefore I follow those authors, who say the same, immediately after the death of Filinus and Solaphitus, declared as queens ***Marpesia*** and ***Lampeda***, the deceased youths' spouses, who were called daughters of Mars: not because multiple leaders in every case seemed useful to them, but because at home and abroad they were overcome by such difficult labors, that one queen could not be equal to each part, however much they surpassed the males in courage. Therefore while Lampeda administered wisely, those who were able for domestic affairs and native land, Marpesia led the external army in great magnanimity as far as Asia, so that it was comparable not to any prince or duke, but more to the highest Emperor. For attacking various peoples, reconciling others to herself, she extended her victorious arms as far as the Caucasus mountains. Where having been somewhat delayed, she spent time, so that place was called the Marpesia rock by learned poets. Then the victorious women gushing themselves over the whole of Asia Minor, powerfully conquered Armenia, Galatia, Syria, Cilicia, Persia and many other most powerful regions: and there choosing permanent settlements, they erected great cities and fortified towers, and consecrated their names to them. For among other notable works, they built the most famous cities Smyrna and Ephesus, and the same built a temple there, admired in all the world, in honor of Diana, whose study hunters and archers always wondrously pursued: which later, a certain Herostratus comparing to an eternal name, was burnt. Therefore with these most notable facts it appears, those famous women not only were endowed with military might, but also abounded in the best institutions of human and civil life. But they had not lacked similar examples in the native land: whereof we shall speak a little below, when we purposefully touch on the naval force of the Gothic women. Now let us return to the Amazons of Asia: who although they would carry themselves wisely enough in war and peace, nevertheless could not calm the fierce spirits of the neighboring barbarians on all sides, lest they at least strive in secret plots to shake female power from their necks. Only the choice was lacking them a long time, that they finally obtained for them in the way that follows. For when Marpesia had abundant precious things, goods and wealth, she sent the great part of the female army laden with spoils, to Queen Lampeda pertaining to domestic business. In this sending, when the Asians observed the diminished power of most of the women, they considered it far more honorable to die once, than to endure longer a government of foreign women with such disgrace.

[Jordanes' account, omitting all mention of Filinus and Solaphitus, continues as follows: "*Mutually encouraging each other, they took up arms and chose two of the bolder, Lampeto and Marpesia, to act as their leaders. While they were in command, they cast lots both for the defense of their own country and the devastation of other lands. So Lampeto remained to guard their native land and Marpesia took a company of women and led this novel army into Asia. After conquering various tribes in war and making others their allies by treaties, she came to the Caucasus. There she remained for some time and gave the place the name Rock of Marpesia, of which also Virgil makes mention: 'Like to hard flint or the Marpesian Cliff.'... Here, then, the Amazons remained for some time and were much strengthened. Then they departed and crossed the river Halys, which flows near the city of Gangra, and with equal success subdued Armenia, Syria, Cilicia, Galatia, Pisidia and all the places of Asia. Then they turned to Ionia and Aeolia, and made provinces of them after their surrender. Here they ruled for some time and even founded cities and camps bearing their name. At Ephesus also they built a very costly and beautiful temple for Diana, because of her delight in archery and the chase--arts to which they were themselves devoted.*"

Pisidia, just north of Lycia in Asia Minor, is a far likelier reading than Magnus' "Persia". Aventinus clarifies that the main opponent of Marpesia's Amazons in Asia Minor was the Greek general Bellerophon, fighting for the state of Lycia, ruled by king Heuries:

*At this time, as the hero Danhauser (of whom I said much earlier) was still the king and captain of the German knights called Kempher, the war women set out and elected two Queens, with the names Marthpeis and Landpotin. Landpotin stayed at home, Marthpeis overran the whole of Asia up to the kingdom of Lycea. There was a younger prince, with the name Bellerophontes, whom I have mentioned above, he was the son of king Glaucus of the state of Corinth, a straight handsome prince, he was exiled from the regime by a king named Proetos. This one had a wife, named Anteia, who courted the above mentioned Bellerophontes: but as he did not want to do her will, she petitioned her husband and said, how he courted her, dishonored and humiliated an unfaithful affair on her. King Proetos, her lord, believing such, sent Bellerophontes from Greece into Asia to his in law Heuries, who was king in Lycia. At the same time, the said queen Marthpeis and her war women fell upon king Heuries in the country, causing great damage with murder and fire. The hero Bellerophontes threw himself into opposition against the women, flinging everyone off; nobody wanted to meet these women. The poets write that Bellerophontes had a horse, it flew in the air, so with the help of the goddess Pallas he defeated the women and killed their queen Marthpeis.*With help of Jerome, Bellerophon's campaign can be dated to the 5th year of Cecrops II in Athens, ca. 1605 BC; hence Marpesia's rule over the Amazons in Asia Minor can be placed between 1644 BC and 1605 BC, while her sister Queen Lampeda administered the allied forces in Europe, including the Cimmero-Gothic confederation.

Magnus, after narrating the death of Marpesia in battle with unspecified 'barbarians', spends Chapters 30-32 continuing the subsequent Amazon queens he knows of, starting with Orithya, a contemporary of the Greek Hercules, and in his account daughter of Marpesia. However, it is clear that Orithya, and Hercules, come much later in Aventinus' chronology of the Amazons, and after the "gap", thus Orithya could not be the daughter of Marpesia. The history of the Getae kings is resumed in Chapter 33, about the reign of Zenta the philosopher, who seems to have ruled the External Getae next after Lampeda.]

## Chapter 30

Therefore, collecting their strength, they proceeded to battle: nor was Marpesia slow to meet it; who, surrounded by her own female corps, was slain while fighting most valiantly, having first slain a great number of the barbarians. But neither could that bloody victory deliver the Asians from the empire of the Amazons. For the more powerful daughter ***Orithyia*** (whom some others call Sinope or Antiope) succeeded her mother Marpesia in the kingdom of the Amazons, placed the yoke upon the necks of the rebels, and compelled the unwarlike men to obey the rule of brave women. She was of such purity, that she never permitted herself to be known by any man, but by perpetual virginity heaped up the glory of admirable military prowess. Others will decide whether she did this with the haughty contempt of men, or with the love of preserving virtue. I think, she disdained the companionship of a man, because she wished to rule over men rather, than be associated with any man by the equality of marriage. Inasmuch as she despised the pleasure of marriage, and devoted herself to virtue, she caused so much the greater fear of all the enemies of the Amazons, who considered it the greatest of their chief virtues. For who would not be more afraid of a prudent Queen, than an unwise king, brooding over his pleasures? Therefore, when the powerful and wise king of the Greeks considered this Queen of the Amazons to despise pleasure with a great and lofty spirit, to honor her virtue, and with all her endeavors to undertake great achievements, he began to fear for himself and his kingdom not a little, lest a woman of such admirable courage might some day extend her power against Greece. For this reason Hercules, the most eminent of all his dukes, to whom he owed twelve tributes on account of his extraordinary bravery, ordered an almost impossible affair to bring in the arms of the Queen of the Amazons. Who, following the king's orders, drew up a powerful fleet, into which he introduced as not a coward or inexperienced soldier, but respected nobles, and the chief youth of the princes of Greece. But it was something less than the work of Hercules' courage, which he completed with more cunning than courage. But after he learned from his scouts that Orithyia had been occupied in a protracted campaign, and that an army of women was seldom left for domestic protection, as if he were going to do an important thing, he rushed out of the fleet, accompanied by the most elite militia of Greece, and attacked them without surprise. There was then another Queen ***Antiope***, the sister of Orithyia herself, who governed the republic at home. When she saw that this unexpected war was waged against her by the enemy, whom she had never injured, though she was dismayed at the first attack of her enemy, yet, having drawn together her former valor, (as the case permits), with an army of women, she rushed in more audaciously than fortunately against the enemy. But few women are easily overcome by many men, the unprepared by the prepared. For many were slain, and there were not few who were led away in triumph: among whom were the two sisters of the two queens Orithyia and Antiope, namely *Menalippa*, by Hercules, and *Hippolyta*, whom Theseus, king of the Athenians, took captive.

[The death of Marpesia, as noted, should be placed in 1605 BC. Queens Orithyia and Antiope ruled during the reign of Brenner I of Bavaria, 1245-1207 BC, and were thus not daughters of Marpesia.

Several additional Amazon queens between Marpesia and Orithyia can be noted thanks to Aventinus: Queens Aloph (c. 1605-1545 BC) and Hippolyte (c. 1545-1494 BC), then a smaller gap 1494-c. 1298 BC, then Queens Aigen and Cyme (c. 1298-1245 BC). Three further Amazon queens who ruled principalities along the Black Sea coast of Anatolia contemporary with Orithya and Antiope, are also known: Queens Themiscyra, Mirlea, and Amastris. Note that King Theseus of Athens captured Queen Hippolyte in 1494 BC, whereas the Greek Heracles captured Menalippe in 1233 BC, but the "Parian Marble Gap" made them seem contemporary for later historians.]

## Chapter 31

But Queen Antiope, having given Hercules the arms which she possessed, made Menalippa free from prisoner of war. Which Martial, writing in his epigrams, says: "The Amazon, as a gift to Alcides, scattered the Scythian targets, and Theseus married Hippolyta as his wife, and begat Hippolytus by her." Elated by this victory, Hercules returned to his King with a rapid pace, not wanting to seek the mighty army of Orithyia now coming on. For after she learned that her sisters and allies were being attacked by the enemy, in order to bring necessary aid, she sped off with the greatest speed. And when she found that the Prince of the Greeks was an enemy, she exhorted them in many ways and allied accounts to avenge this great injustice. In vain, she says, we had tamed Pontus, Asia, and Syria, if we were to be harassed by the wars and robberies of the Greeks. She added, moreover, that the princes, whose friends and allies would not be wanting, whose violence and insolence were odious to the Greeks, in whose number *Sagillus* king of the Goths was not the last: she immediately announced to him by her ambassadors that she had determined to make war upon the Greeks, not only to avenge the wrongs of their own and their allies, but that the Greeks should be warned that they could not withstand the bravery of the Goths, when they should find that their women were learned and ready for war. Moved by that honorable and just embassy, ​​Sagillus sent a vast army to aid them, to which he had appointed *Penaxagoras* his son. But since these auxiliary forces were too slowed by the baggage of the march, and a domestic sedition arose among the Amazons themselves, they were defeated by the war of the Athenians, or, more accurately, compelled to return to their own country. For a long time, however, the outrage received by the Greeks remained fixed in their hearts.

[The external Getae kings, Sagillus and his son Penaxagoras, appear more fully in chapters 34 and 35, and are also mentioned in Aventinus chapter 85 as Sigl and Pinzgar, kings of the Germanic Cimmerians in the reign of Brenner I (c. 1245-1207 BC). The Getae and Cimmerians were usually under the same leadership, with few exceptions.]

## Chapter 32

***Pantasilea***, therefore, after she had granted the fate of Orithyia to the most dignified desire of her people, was made governor of the kingdom of the Amazons. At this time, when the Trojans were certain that they were preparing for war against the Greeks, and that the Amazons were carried with a very serious hatred against the Greeks, they sent ambassadors to Pantasilea: by whom they announce that the time has come, when they avenge the injustices formerly done to the Amazons by the Greeks, so long as they allow them to join in the military might of the Trojans. This was not the ungrateful embassy for that most powerful Queen, who was inflamed with the most ardent love of the Trojans, and often desired in her mind how she might be able to give equal favor to the Greeks, by whom the leaders and queens of the Amazons had long since been led to a triumph. For this reason, supposing that she ought not to wait long, she led to Troy an army not to be despised: and, having burned the ships of the Greeks at the first attack, she turned them to flight then, while fighting for the Trojans, not slothfully or timidly in battle against them, she introduced those brave men to the admiration of her valor. For the place which she seized while fighting while she was alive, having fallen down and dying, she covered it with a great number of the enemy on every side. By this chance the whole army of the Amazons, being furious, rushed into the enemy, without observing any order, provoking to themselves the fates by which the Queen had been destroyed. And thus all those things which had gone forward to war, of necessity, were destroyed. Yet the few who remained at home, defending themselves more powerfully and more prudently, lasted until the time of Alexander the Great. When ***Calestris***, Queen of the Amazons, or Minuthyia (as Justin reports) had discovered his unconquered power, she did not rest until she had completed her thirty-day journey, and had come to him, accompanied by three hundred thousand women, supposing that he was happy, if he would conceive a offspring from the most brave ruler of the whole world, to bring back his paternal fortune and fortitude. Therefore, having gained the king's intercourse for the whole of fourteen days, when he felt that she had conceived in the womb, he hastened to return to his own kingdom: not long after which, the name of all the Amazons was extinct and wiped out. So much for the women of the Amazons of the Goths: now let us return to the Goths. But before in this place Strabo is not to be disgraced, who seems to assert that no republic could be established by the Amazons without the assistance of the men. But in that assertion he is very different from Plato, who writes in Dialogus VII De Legibus, that in his time innumerable thousands of women fought around the Black Sea, for whom he had not only the horses, but also the bows, and the care and exercise of other arms; and not long after in the same dialogue he mentions the military fortitude of the Amazons. Besides, in Diodorus the Sicilian in Book 3 and 4 you will find far more wonderful things of the Amazons, which we have taken care to note.

[Queen Penthesilea followed Orithyia et al c. 1207 BC. The Amazons under her intervened in the Trojan War in 1185 BC, and she fell in combat in 1184 BC.

From Aventinus, two additional Amazon queens are known following her, Queens Amar (c. 1184-1146 BC) and Thebe (c. 1146-1077 BC). For unknown reasons, the Amazons razed their temple in Ephesus in 1146 BC, and after Thebe in 1077 BC they crossed the Black Sea to dwell north of the Caucasus, where nothing is known of their queens, until Queen Thallestra or Calestris (c. 336-321 BC) encountered Alexander.]

* Continued at Chapter 33

* Sources Index