Imperial Image - Augustus Reign Flashcards
What was Octavian’s primary focus at the beginning of his political career?
To make people aware of him to gain influence over the Romans
This was achieved through the formation of the Second Triumvirate.
What significant event diminished the need for Octavian to prove himself to others?
Antony’s defeat at Actium
After this event, no one remained who could realistically challenge his power.
What family background did Octavian come from?
He came from a politically insignificant family, the Octavii
This meant he had little or no power initially.
What was one of Octavian’s main needs immediately following Caesar’s assassination?
To be seen as Caesar’s legitimate heir
He did not want any links to the title ‘Dictator in Perpetuity.’
How old was Octavian at the time of Caesar’s assassination?
18 years old
He was politically inexperienced.
What were the aims of the Second Triumvirate?
- Establish himself as Caesar’s legitimate heir
- Avenge the death of Caesar
- Ensure stability throughout Rome and the Empire
During the civil war with Antony, why could Octavian not have it seen as a civil war?
It would be perceived as a power-grab
Antony was a well-respected military general with the support of 300 Senators.
What strategy did Octavian use to manage his public image during the civil war?
Linking himself to Apollo
This symbolized the triumph of civilization over barbarism.
What did Octavian need to show to maintain loyalty to Rome?
His dedication to Rome
What was a significant outcome of the Battle of Actium for Octavian?
He needed to retain power without appearing unconstitutional
He had to separate himself from the problematic attributes of Caesar.
How has history remembered Augustus?
As the man who ended the Republic and established the Principate
He presented himself as the savior of Rome from ambitious politicians.
What extraordinary powers were given to Octavian by the Senate during his rise to power?
- Admitted into the Senate at a young age
- Held the consulship at a young age
- Commanded armies before holding political office
- Suspended the courts and free-elections as a triumvir
What title did Octavian take in 27 BC that signified a return to stability?
Augustus
This title means to increase, enrich, or praise.
In what year was Octavian elected as Princeps Senatus?
28 BC
What did the Senate bestow upon Octavian in response to his return of powers?
- The civic crown
- Control of Spain, Hispania, Gaul, Egypt, and Syria
- The title ‘Princeps’
- The Clipeius Virtutis (Shield of Virtue)
- The title Augustus
What role did Augustus self-impose that was important for his personal brand?
Religious leader
This role appealed to conservatives concerned about moral decline.
How many temples did Augustus oversee the restoration of starting in 28 BC?
82 temples
Several new temples were also built.
What was the Pax Augusta?
A period of peace established by Augustus throughout the Empire
It helped prevent assassination or overthrow.
What was the significance of the Denarius minted in 12 BC?
It reinforced the connection between Augustus and state religion
It celebrated his election as Pontifex Maximus.
What was the purpose of the Prima Porta Augustus monument?
To commemorate the Parthian Campaign
It was commissioned by the Senate.
What did the standards captured in 53 BC symbolize for the Romans?
A significant loss of morale
They felt their supremacy was being undermined.
What did Augustus present as proof of Parthia’s submission to Roman control?
The return of the standards
However, Parthia remained an independent empire.
What does the term ‘adlocutio’ refer to in the context of Augustus’ portraits?
An oratorical pose used when addressing the army
What does Augustus’ barefoot depiction in statues signify?
Reserved for gods and heroes
It emphasizes his moral connection to Roman virtue.
What animal is Cupid riding in the Prima Porta Augustus statue, and what does it symbolize?
A dolphin
It symbolizes Augustus’ naval victory over Mark Antony and Cleopatra.
What virtue does Augustus emphasize in his portrayal?
The Roman virtue of pietas
Pietas refers to duty to family, gods, and country.
Who does Cupid represent in relation to Augustus?
Cupid represents the association with Venus, mother of Aeneas and ancestor of the Julian Clan.
What does the dolphin in the statue symbolize?
The dolphin could symbolize a naval victory over Mark Antony and Cleopatra (Actium, 31 BC).
What does the central figure pulling a cloth represent?
It represents the heavens.
Who might the figure holding out standards to a Roman represent?
Could represent Tiberius or Mars Ultor.
What does the woman holding a cornucopia likely represent?
Most likely a mother earth figure.
What is Apollo riding in the statue?
Apollo is riding a griffin.
What does the griffin symbolize in relation to Apollo?
Griffins are linked to knowledge and wisdom, traits associated with Apollo.
What title was Augustus granted by the Senate in 2 BC?
Pater Patriae, meaning ‘Father of the Fatherland’.
What were the Leges Iuliae?
Laws that regulated the behavior of citizens, encouraging marriage and childbearing.
What issues arose from the implementation of the Leges Iuliae?
Open rebellion and attempts to circumvent the laws.
What was the significance of Ovid’s poetry for Augustus’ image?
Ovid’s poetry filled with stories of origins and festivals, promoting patriotism and traditional worship.
What is a key theme in Propertius’ Elegies regarding Augustus?
It provides a dissenting voice against Augustus’ foreign campaigning and highlights personal suffering.
How did Augustus adjust his relationship with Julius Caesar over time?
Initially essential for legitimacy, it became problematic as Augustus needed to distance himself from Caesar’s controversial legacy.
