Augustan Period

Definition

The Augustan Period refers to the era of Roman history during the reign of Augustus Caesar, which lasted from 27 BCE to 14 CE. This period is marked by significant political, cultural, and artistic achievements that laid the foundation for the Roman Empire. The Augustan Period is particularly known for the promotion of literature and the arts, including the famous epic poem, the Aeneid, which connects Roman mythology and national identity.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Augustus, originally named Octavian, became the first Roman emperor after defeating Mark Antony and Cleopatra at the Battle of Actium in 31 BCE.
2. Under Augustus, Rome experienced a transformation in architecture and infrastructure, with extensive building projects such as temples, roads, and aqueducts.
3. The period is noted for a revival of traditional Roman values and morals, known as 'moral legislation,' aimed at promoting family life and civic duty.
4. The Aeneid was commissioned by Augustus to legitimize his rule and connect his lineage to Aeneas, a Trojan hero who represents the founding of Rome.
5. The Augustan Period also saw advancements in literature with prominent figures like Horace and Ovid contributing significantly to Roman poetry.

Review Questions

• How did Augustus use literature and the arts during the Augustan Period to promote his political agenda?
  • Augustus strategically utilized literature and the arts to bolster his political agenda by commissioning works that glorified his reign and connected him to Rome's legendary past. The Aeneid by Virgil served not only as a significant piece of literature but also as a tool for propaganda that traced Augustus's lineage back to Aeneas, legitimizing his authority. Through this cultural promotion, Augustus aimed to instill a sense of pride and unity among Romans while reinforcing his image as a pivotal figure in their history.
• In what ways did the Augustan Period contribute to the development of Roman identity through its cultural achievements?
  • The Augustan Period played a crucial role in shaping Roman identity through its emphasis on cultural achievements such as literature, art, and architecture. By promoting works like the Aeneid, Augustus linked contemporary Rome to its mythological roots, fostering a shared national identity. Additionally, monumental architecture reflected Rome's power and grandeur, further solidifying citizens' pride in their heritage. This cultural renaissance helped establish a distinct Roman identity that would influence future generations.
• Evaluate the impact of Augustus’s reign on subsequent emperors and how it shaped the governance of the Roman Empire.
  • Augustus's reign set a precedent for subsequent emperors by establishing a model of leadership characterized by a blend of authoritarian control and public appeal. His establishment of the Principate allowed future rulers to maintain imperial authority while preserving elements of republican governance. The policies initiated during his time, including moral legislation and infrastructure improvements, became templates for later emperors seeking legitimacy and stability. This lasting impact helped shape both the governance structures and cultural landscape of the Roman Empire for centuries.

Related terms

Pax Romana: A long period of relative peace and stability throughout the Roman Empire, lasting from 27 BCE to 180 CE, initiated by Augustus.

Aeneid:

An epic poem written by Virgil during the Augustan Period, depicting the journey of Aeneas and his role in establishing Rome, serving as a cornerstone of Roman mythology.

Principate: The term used to describe the early Roman Empire under Augustus, characterized by a system of government where the emperor held power while maintaining the illusion of a republic.