Life of Flavius Josephus, The
Interlinear version (Beta)
About
The Life of Flavius Josephus, written around 95 AD, serves more as an apologetic defense of his conduct during the Jewish War than a traditional autobiography.
This work focuses primarily on his actions as commander in Galilee before his surrender to the Romans, seemingly written in response to criticism from Justus of Tiberias, who had accused him of anti-Roman activities.
While providing valuable details about Galilean politics and society, the work's defensive tone and selective presentation of events reveal Josephus's complex position as a Jewish aristocrat who became a Roman citizen. Notably, this autobiography sometimes contradicts his earlier account in The Jewish War, particularly regarding his role in the rebellion, leading scholars to debate which version more accurately reflects historical events.
The work also illuminates the political pressures faced by Josephus as he attempted to maintain credibility with both his Roman patrons and his Jewish audience, while defending himself against accusations of treachery from both sides.