Res gestae divi augusti

Definition

The 'res gestae divi augusti' is a first-person account of the achievements of the Roman Emperor Augustus, inscribed on a bronze pillar in Rome and serving as an important political document. This text highlights Augustus' contributions to the Roman state, including military victories, public works, and social reforms, illustrating his vision for a revitalized Rome and his role in establishing the principate.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The 'res gestae divi augusti' was meant to be a public record of Augustus' accomplishments and was displayed in various locations across the empire, ensuring widespread visibility.
2. The text was divided into sections that detailed military campaigns, civil achievements, and personal honors, reinforcing Augustus' image as both a military leader and benevolent ruler.
3. Augustus used this document to legitimize his rule by showcasing his contributions to Rome and portraying himself as a savior of the state after years of civil war.
4. The inscription emphasizes Augustus’ respect for traditional Roman values and institutions while simultaneously revolutionizing the political landscape with his leadership style.
5. This account had lasting impacts on how future emperors would present themselves and their accomplishments, setting a precedent for imperial propaganda.

Review Questions

• How does the 'res gestae divi augusti' reflect Augustus' approach to consolidating power in Rome?
  • The 'res gestae divi augusti' showcases Augustus' strategic use of personal narrative to consolidate his power. By framing his achievements in a way that emphasized both military success and civic responsibility, he crafted an image of himself as essential for Rome's stability and prosperity. This self-portrayal not only legitimized his authority but also aligned him with traditional Roman values, helping him gain public support and quelling dissent.
• In what ways does the 'res gestae divi augusti' contribute to our understanding of Augustan propaganda?
  • The 'res gestae divi augusti' is a key piece of Augustan propaganda that carefully curates Augustus' achievements to shape public perception. By presenting a selective narrative focused on his military victories and public works, it demonstrates how he sought to construct a favorable legacy. This document allows historians to analyze how Augustus utilized written records to manipulate public opinion and reinforce his position as a stabilizing force in Roman politics.
• Evaluate the significance of the 'res gestae divi augusti' in shaping the narrative of Roman leadership in the context of future emperors.
  • The significance of the 'res gestae divi augusti' extends beyond Augustus himself; it established a template for future Roman emperors regarding how to present their reigns. By showcasing achievements in a public and accessible manner, subsequent leaders followed suit in creating their own narratives to validate their authority. This practice not only contributed to the continuity of imperial propaganda but also reflected changing perceptions about power dynamics within the Roman Empire over time.

Related terms

Principate: The first period of the Roman Empire, characterized by the rule of emperors who maintained the illusion of a republic while holding significant power.

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

Aeneid: An epic poem by Virgil that depicts the legendary founding of Rome and serves as a cultural touchstone for Augustan propaganda, linking Augustus to divine destiny.