ARA PACIS - AENEAS PANEL Flashcards
What is depicted on this panel?
Aeneas, the mythical forefather of the founders of Rome (and supposed ancestor of Augustus) with his son Ascanius, making a sacrifice to the Penates or household gods.
What was the intention behind this depiction?
Intended to build on Augustus’ claim on Rome’s political high ground, as Aeneas is endorsed by the gods, the implication being that Augustus was similarly endorsed.
What does Aeneas head being covered show and underscore?
Showed that he is a Flamine and meant to look like a priest. This allegory underscores the idea that both Aeneas and Augustus were fulfilling a divine destiny, with Augustus restoring prosperity to Rome as a part of the god’s plan.
What does Piety mean?
Means moral and religious conducts, especially back to the gods.
What was Augustus’ reasoning as to why the God’s are punishing Rome.
Augustus blamed the previous wars and civil discontentment on the fact that Romans had wandered away from religious ceremonies and stopped worshipping the gods. As a result, the gods have punished Rome and Augustus needs to restore Piety.
What is the importance of sacrifice in Roman society?
Making a sacrifice to the gods was seen as an essential part of the everyday Roman lifestyle which was perceived as part of their duty towards the gods.
