15.3 Art, architecture, and literature of the High Empire
3 min read•july 19, 2024
showcased power through monumental architecture like the and . , , and mosaics adorned public and private spaces. Greek influences were evident in architectural orders and mythological themes.
Roman literature flourished during this period. 's and 's poetry exemplified poetic achievements. Prose works by and explored philosophy and rhetoric. Historical writings by and Tacitus chronicled Rome's past and present.
Art and Architecture of the High Empire
Characteristics of Roman imperial art
Top images from around the web for Characteristics of Roman imperial art
File:Rome Pantheon front.jpg - Wikimedia Commons View original
Is this image relevant?
File:Giovanni Pauolo Panini - Fantasy View with the Pantheon and other Monuments of Ancient Rome ... View original
Is this image relevant?
File:Rome Pantheon front.jpg - Wikimedia Commons View original
Is this image relevant?
File:Giovanni Pauolo Panini - Fantasy View with the Pantheon and other Monuments of Ancient Rome ... View original
Is this image relevant?
1 of 2
Top images from around the web for Characteristics of Roman imperial art
File:Rome Pantheon front.jpg - Wikimedia Commons View original
Is this image relevant?
File:Giovanni Pauolo Panini - Fantasy View with the Pantheon and other Monuments of Ancient Rome ... View original
Is this image relevant?
File:Rome Pantheon front.jpg - Wikimedia Commons View original
Is this image relevant?
File:Giovanni Pauolo Panini - Fantasy View with the Pantheon and other Monuments of Ancient Rome ... View original
Is this image relevant?
1 of 2
- Monumental architecture showcases grandeur and power
- Colosseum: amphitheater for gladiatorial contests and public spectacles, elliptical structure with tiered seating, innovative use of concrete and arches
- Pantheon: temple dedicated to all gods, largest unreinforced concrete dome in the world, oculus at the top of the dome
- commemorate military victories and achievements with reliefs depicting battle scenes and triumphal processions
- Realistic portraiture captures individual features and expressions in , used in busts, statues, and coins
- Frescoes and mosaics decorate walls and floors of public buildings and private homes, depicting mythological scenes, landscapes, and daily life
Greek influences on Roman styles
- Adoption of Greek orders (, , ) in architecture
- Incorporation of Greek mythological themes and iconography in art
- in sculpture emphasizes emotion and movement
- seen in arch and vault construction techniques and realistic portraiture
- evident in obelisks, pyramidal forms, and use of exotic materials (porphyry, granite)
Development of Roman literature
- Poetry
- Virgil's Aeneid: epic poem tracing the origins of Rome to Aeneas, a Trojan hero, promotes Augustan ideals and legitimizes Roman rule
- Horace's and : lyric poetry addressing themes of love, friendship, and morality, satirical works critiquing Roman society and vices
- Prose
- Cicero's philosophical and rhetorical works: (On Duties) and (On the Orator), influenced by Greek philosophy and oratorical techniques
- Seneca's and tragic plays: moral essays and letters advocating Stoic principles, tragedies adapting Greek myths to Roman contexts
- Historical writing
- Livy's Ab Urbe Condita (From the Founding of the City): monumental history of Rome from its origins to the , emphasizes moral lessons and exemplary figures
- Tacitus' and : chronicles the reigns of emperors from Tiberius to Domitian, provides critical analysis of imperial power and corruption
Art for imperial propaganda
- Glorification of the emperor through statues and portraits depicting them as divine or heroic figures, triumphal arches and monuments celebrating imperial victories, and literature praising their virtues and achievements
- Propagation of Roman values by promoting virtues such as pietas (duty), gravitas (seriousness), and mos maiorum (ancestral custom), depicting exemplary figures from Roman history, and conveying moral lessons and philosophical teachings in literature
- Unification of the empire achieved through standardization of architectural styles and artistic motifs across provinces, dissemination of Roman culture through literature and education, and use of art and architecture to assert Roman dominance and cultural superiority
Key Terms to Review (31)
Aeneid: The Aeneid is an epic poem written by the Roman poet Virgil between 29 and 19 BCE, which tells the story of Aeneas, a Trojan hero, as he journeys to find a new homeland in Italy after the fall of Troy. This poem not only serves as a foundational myth for Rome but also reflects key themes of duty, sacrifice, and the divine will, connecting deeply with Roman identity during the transitional period from republic to empire.
Annals: Annals are chronological records that document historical events, often year by year, providing a systematic account of happenings within a particular society or region. These records serve as a crucial source of information for understanding the social, political, and cultural developments of the time, particularly in the context of art, architecture, and literature during periods such as the High Empire.
Augustan Age: The Augustan Age refers to the period of Roman history during the reign of Emperor Augustus, from 27 BC to AD 14. This era is marked by significant cultural achievements in art, architecture, and literature, which flourished under Augustus's patronage, reflecting the political stability and prosperity he established following years of civil strife.
Cicero: Cicero was a Roman statesman, orator, and author, known for his significant contributions to Roman politics and philosophy during the late Republic. His writings and speeches have influenced the development of rhetoric and political theory, connecting deeply with themes of law, ethics, and governance that were vital during his time. Cicero's works reflect the cultural and intellectual environment of the Roman Republic, while his legacy continues to resonate throughout history in literature and political thought.
Colosseum: The Colosseum, also known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, is a massive stone arena in Rome built during the reign of Emperor Vespasian and completed in 80 AD under his successor, Titus. It symbolizes the architectural and engineering prowess of the Roman Empire and served as a venue for public spectacles, including gladiatorial contests and animal hunts, reflecting the cultural values and social dynamics of the time.
Corinthian: Corinthian refers to one of the three classical orders of ancient Greek architecture, characterized by its ornate column style featuring a slender profile, a bell-shaped capital adorned with acanthus leaves and scrolls. This style emerged in the late Classical period and became widely popular during the Hellenistic era, influencing later architectural developments across the Mediterranean world.
De Officiis: De Officiis, or 'On Duties', is a philosophical work by Cicero that discusses moral obligation and the principles of ethical behavior in public and private life. This text emphasizes the importance of virtue, justice, and duty in governance and personal conduct, reflecting the ideals of Roman society during the High Empire, especially in relation to leadership and civic responsibility.
De oratore: De oratore is a work by Cicero that focuses on the art of oratory and the role of the orator in society. This text emphasizes the importance of eloquence in public speaking, particularly in the context of Roman politics and culture during the Republican period. It connects deeply with the values of persuasion and rhetoric that were crucial for public life, while also influencing literary and artistic expressions in later periods, especially during the High Empire.
Doric: Doric refers to one of the three classical orders of ancient Greek architecture, characterized by its sturdy, fluted columns and a simple, unadorned capital. This architectural style is often associated with strength and masculinity, reflecting the values of the society during its prominence in the Greek world. The Doric order played a significant role in various aspects of Greek culture, influencing not only architecture but also art and literature.
Egyptian Influence: Egyptian influence refers to the significant impact that ancient Egyptian culture, art, and religion had on neighboring civilizations, particularly during the High Empire period. This influence is evident in various artistic forms, architectural designs, and literary themes that borrow from or are inspired by Egyptian traditions and symbols. As the ancient Mediterranean world interconnected, the aesthetic and ideological aspects of Egyptian culture became absorbed and adapted by other societies.
Etruscan Influence: Etruscan influence refers to the cultural, artistic, and architectural impact of the Etruscan civilization on early Roman society. This influence is evident in various aspects, including the adoption of architectural techniques, religious practices, and artistic styles that shaped the development of Roman culture during the High Empire period.
Frescoes: Frescoes are a form of mural painting executed on freshly laid wet plaster, allowing the pigments to bond with the wall surface as it dries. This technique has been widely used in ancient civilizations, creating vibrant and durable artworks that often depict religious, cultural, or mythological themes. Frescoes offer insight into the societal values, beliefs, and artistic styles of the periods in which they were created.
Hellenistic Style: Hellenistic style refers to the artistic and cultural expressions that emerged in the Mediterranean region during the Hellenistic period, following the conquests of Alexander the Great. This style is characterized by its emphasis on naturalism, emotional expression, and dynamic movement in art and architecture, blending Greek traditions with influences from the Near East and Egypt. It represents a shift towards more individualized and dramatic representations in sculpture and architecture, reflecting broader cultural exchanges during this era.
Heroism: Heroism is the quality of being brave and selfless, often in the face of danger or adversity, characterized by acts that demonstrate courage, strength, and noble intent. In the context of art, architecture, and literature during the High Empire, heroism is portrayed as a central theme reflecting the values and ideals of society, emphasizing the importance of heroic figures and their accomplishments in shaping culture and history.
Histories: Histories refer to the accounts and narratives documenting past events, cultures, and societies, often recorded in written form. In the context of the High Empire, these histories serve as crucial sources for understanding the artistic, architectural, and literary achievements of the period, providing insight into the cultural values and practices of the time. They also help in connecting the diverse influences that shaped this era, revealing how historical context influenced artistic expression and literary works.
Horace: Horace was a prominent Roman poet during the time of Augustus, known for his lyrical and satirical poetry. His works reflect the cultural and social values of the High Empire, particularly in how they explore themes such as love, friendship, and the appreciation of art, which were central to Roman life during this period.
Ionic: Ionic refers to a type of bond that forms when one atom transfers electrons to another, creating charged ions that attract each other due to their opposite charges. This concept is essential in understanding the materials and influences during various periods, including how societies interacted through trade and cultural exchange, shaping their development.
Livy: Livy was a Roman historian who lived during the late Republic and early Empire, known primarily for his monumental work, 'Ab Urbe Condita,' which chronicles the history of Rome from its legendary founding to the early days of the Empire. His writings reflect not only historical events but also his views on Roman values, culture, and the moral lessons he believed could be drawn from history.
Mythology: Mythology refers to a collection of myths, traditional stories, and beliefs that explain the nature of the world, human behavior, and the divine. It serves as a cultural framework that shapes societies' values and norms while often influencing art, literature, and architecture. In the context of the High Empire, mythology provided a rich source of inspiration for artistic expression and conveyed essential societal ideals through narratives and symbols.
Odes: Odes are a type of lyrical poem, often characterized by their formal structure and lofty themes, typically expressing praise or admiration for a person, event, or concept. In the context of art, architecture, and literature during the High Empire, odes played a significant role in cultural expression, reflecting the values and ideals of society while also serving to commemorate important figures and achievements.
Pantheon: A pantheon refers to the complete set of gods and goddesses in a particular religion or mythology, representing the collective deities worshiped by a culture. In ancient societies, these deities often symbolized various aspects of life, nature, and human experience, reflecting the beliefs, values, and identity of the people. The pantheon serves as a crucial framework for understanding the cultural and spiritual life of civilizations, shaping artistic expressions, architectural styles, and literary works.
Pax Romana: Pax Romana, meaning 'Roman Peace,' refers to a period of relative stability and peace across the Roman Empire that lasted approximately from 27 BCE to 180 CE. This era was marked by minimal military expansion, economic prosperity, and cultural flourishing, primarily under the rule of Augustus and his successors. The stability of this period allowed for advancements in administration, trade, art, and literature throughout the empire.
Public commissions: Public commissions refer to projects or works of art, architecture, and literature that are funded and commissioned by the state or public institutions. These commissions often serve to express civic pride, promote cultural identity, and enhance the aesthetic environment of cities and towns. In the context of the High Empire, public commissions were crucial for demonstrating the power and stability of the ruling authorities while also providing employment and showcasing the talents of artists and architects.
Realistic portraiture: Realistic portraiture refers to the artistic practice of creating lifelike representations of individuals, emphasizing accurate detail and naturalism. This approach became prominent during the High Empire, where artists sought to capture not just physical likenesses, but also the personality and character of their subjects, reflecting broader societal values of the time.
Roman Imperial Art: Roman Imperial Art refers to the artistic and architectural achievements produced during the period of the Roman Empire, particularly from the reign of Augustus in 27 BCE to the fall of the Western Roman Empire in 476 CE. This art form is characterized by its grandeur, realism, and incorporation of Greek influences, reflecting the power and ideology of the imperial state.
Satires: Satires are literary works that use humor, irony, and exaggeration to criticize or mock individuals, society, or institutions. They often highlight flaws and absurdities, serving as a means of social commentary and reflection. During the High Empire period, satires became an important part of literature, reflecting the cultural and political issues of the time while engaging audiences through wit and cleverness.
Seneca: Seneca was a Roman philosopher, statesman, and playwright from the first century CE, renowned for his contributions to Stoicism and his influential works in literature. His writings encompass a range of topics, including ethics, morality, and the human condition, reflecting the complex social and political climate of his time. Seneca's thoughts on tragedy and moral philosophy significantly impacted both Roman culture and later European literature.
Stoic philosophy: Stoic philosophy is an ancient Greek school of thought that teaches the development of self-control and fortitude as a means to overcome destructive emotions. It emphasizes rationality and virtue as the path to true happiness, advocating for a life in accordance with nature and acceptance of fate. This philosophy significantly influenced art, architecture, and literature during the High Empire, reflecting ideals of balance, virtue, and the human experience.
Triumphal arches: Triumphal arches are monumental structures built to commemorate military victories or significant events, often serving as grand gateways in urban environments. These architectural marvels typically feature a large archway flanked by columns and elaborate sculptures, celebrating the achievements of leaders and the state. They were particularly prominent during the High Empire, where they symbolized power, prestige, and the glory of Rome.
Veristic style: Veristic style refers to a form of realism in art, particularly in Roman portraiture, characterized by a detailed and truthful representation of subjects, often emphasizing their age and experience. This style emerged during the late Republican period and continued into the High Empire, reflecting the Roman values of wisdom and gravitas associated with older individuals. The veristic approach highlights imperfections and features that signify maturity, contrasting with the more idealized forms that were common in Greek art.
Virgil: Virgil was a prominent Roman poet who lived during the late Republican period and is best known for his epic poem, the 'Aeneid.' His works reflect the values and beliefs of Roman culture, intertwining themes of duty, destiny, and the divine, while also embodying the transition from the Republic to the Empire.