Augustus' Building projects - sources

Question 1

Question: According to Strabo’s Geography, how did Augustus’ building regulations reflect his concern for public safety?

Answer 1

Augustus prioritized safety by creating “a fire brigade” and placing “restrictions on building heights” to reduce fire hazards and collapses.

Question 2

Question: How does Suetonius’ Life of Augustus depict Augustus’ transformation of Rome from a city of brick to one of marble?

Answer 2

Augustus modernized Rome, claiming he “clothed her in marble,” symbolizing its transformation into a grand and powerful capital.

Question 3

Question: How does Suetonius’ Life of Augustus explain the political and religious significance of Augustus’ public works?

Answer 3

Augustus constructed major buildings like “the Temple of Mars” and “the Forum” to display his authority and piety(quality of being religious).

Question 4

Question: How does Augustus in Res Gestae portray his temple-building as enhancing his political and religious authority?

Answer 4

Augustus funded key structures like “the Temple of Apollo” to emphasize his connection to the gods and reinforce his authority.

Question 5

Question: In Suetonius’ Life of Augustus, how did Augustus’ division of the city into districts improve its management?

Answer 5

Augustus “divided the city into districts” and implemented fire brigades to improve governance and safety in Rome.

Question 6

Question: Why, according to Suetonius’ Life of Augustus, was restoring temples significant for Augustus’ public image?

Answer 6

Augustus restored “ruined temples” and adorned them with “lavish gifts,” highlighting his piety and respect for tradition.

Question 7

Question: How does Augustus in Res Gestae link the construction of the Temple of Mars Ultor to his divine mission?

Answer 7

Augustus built “the Temple of Mars Ultor” to honor Mars and commemorate avenging Caesar, blending religious and political motives.

Question 8

Question: How does the Forum of Augustus (Image 3) illustrate its role as a public and ceremonial space in Roman society?

Answer 8

The Forum of Augustus served as “a paved public space” with “colonnades” for legal, military, and ceremonial activities, symbolizing Roman power.