The Achievements of Augustus - The Transformation of the Roman Republic into the Roman Empire

Essay , 2007 , 10 Pages , Grade: 1,0

World History - Early and Ancient History

How did Augustus transform the Roman republic into an empire? Why was he successful where Julius Caesar had not been? What was the process and what were the results of the changes Augustus introduced? In this essay, various sources about the first emperor of the Roman Empire will be examined, such as those of Augustus himself, of contemporary or later historians, and archaeological evidence. Generally, it can be stated that Augustus rather used the Republican system including all its traditional positions and regulations to gain power, whereas Caesar opposed the traditional ways of political life and therewith made himself the enemy of the state. Augustus
achieved his position as the mightiest man in the empire through several strategies, e.g. by clever political/military strategies such as...

Inhaltsverzeichnis

• The Achievements of Augustus – The Transformation of the Roman Republic into the Roman Empire

Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte

This essay examines the transformation of the Roman Republic into the Roman Empire under the rule of Augustus. It explores the strategies and methods employed by Augustus to consolidate his power and establish himself as the first emperor. The essay analyzes various sources, including Augustus' own writings, contemporary and later historians, and archaeological evidence, to understand the process and results of the changes Augustus introduced.

• Augustus' strategic use of Republican institutions and traditions to gain power
• The role of political and military strategies in Augustus' rise to power
• The establishment of a cult of ruler worship and its impact on Augustus' image and authority
• The significance of building programs, games, festivals, and territorial expansion in consolidating Augustus' rule
• The evolution of Augustus' power and the shift from a republic to an empire

Zusammenfassung der Kapitel

The essay begins by analyzing a decree issued by Augustus in 4 B.C.E., which appears to present him as a caring and generous emperor who respects Republican traditions. However, a closer examination reveals that Augustus may have had more control over the decree than he initially suggests, using it to gain power over the provinces and minimize the senate's authority. The essay then explores the concept of ruler worship through an inscription from the city of Narbonne, which praises Augustus and his titles, highlighting his growing power and influence. Horace's Odes provide further evidence of Augustus' image as a benevolent and successful ruler, emphasizing his accomplishments in bringing peace, prosperity, and virtue to Rome. However, the essay notes that Horace's praise may have been influenced by his position at Augustus' court and the potential consequences of criticizing the emperor. The essay then examines Suetonius' Life of Augustus, which portrays the emperor as humble and reluctant to accept the title "father of his country." However, the essay questions the authenticity of this portrayal, suggesting that Augustus may have strategically used his refusal to further enhance his image and solidify his position. Finally, the essay analyzes Dio Cassius' Roman History, which provides a more objective perspective on Augustus' reign. Dio Cassius argues that Augustus effectively transformed the Republic into a monarchy by acquiring various Republican titles and centralizing power in his own hands. The essay concludes by discussing the implications of Augustus' actions for the Roman state, highlighting the consolidation of power, the decline of Republican institutions, and the emergence of a new imperial order.

Schlüsselwörter

The key words and focus themes of the text include Augustus, Roman Republic, Roman Empire, transformation, power, strategies, institutions, ruler worship, propaganda, building programs, territorial expansion, senate, provinces, consuls, titles, offices, monarchy, and imperial order. The essay explores the process by which Augustus consolidated his power and transformed the Roman Republic into the Roman Empire, examining the various strategies and methods he employed to achieve this goal.

• College: Hawai'i Pacific University
• Course: Introduction to Greco-Roman Civilization
• Grade: 1,0
• Author: Christina Gieseler (Author)
• Publication Year: 2007
• Pages: 10
• Catalog Number: V148719
• ISBN (eBook): 9783640604517
• ISBN (Book): 9783640604395
• Language: English
• Tags: Achievements, Augustus, Transformation, Roman, Republic, Roman, Empire