Did Augustus Restore the Roman Republic? Flashcards
(14 cards)
What did Augustus say restoring the Republic (Res Gestae)?
“The whole of Italy, of its own accord, swore an oath of allegiance to me”
Augustus presented a façade of restoring the Republic while consolidating power.
What did Dio Cassius say about Augustus restoring the Republic?
He describes Augustus’ rule as a “monarchy”
Dio Cassius provides a critical view of Augustus’ claims.
What did Vellius Paterculus say about Augustus restoring the Republic?
“the ancient, traditional form of the republic was brought back”
Augustus ruled with autocratic powers while maintaining a republican appearance.
How did Augustus describe his power? According to Cassius Dio
“It is in my power to rule over you for life” [Cassius Dio 53.4]
This statement underscores his monarchic control.
What was the Senate’s condition under Augustus?
The Senate was left weak due to lack of army support and Praetorian influence.
Augustus ensured the Senate was unarmed and politically weakened.
What did Augustus do to the Praetorian Guard?
He created the Praetorian Guard and paid them twice what the normal army received.
This was part of his strategy to secure loyalty and control.
What did Tacitus say about Augustus’ power?
“He gradually increased his power, commandeering the functions of the Senate, the magistrates, and the law.”
Tacitus highlights Augustus’ absorption of governmental powers.
What honors did Augustus receive that symbolized his power?
Clipeus Virtutis and Civic Crown
These honors were used in propaganda to enhance his image.
What is the significance of the term ‘princeps’ in relation to Augustus?
‘Princeps’ means first citizen, emphasising his position without overtly claiming absolute power.
Augustus promoted a narrative of shared power with the people.
What does Dio Cassius say about the First Constitutional settlement (27bc)
“compelled him, as it seemed to accept autocratic powers” whilst making it seem like he wanted to reject it
The FCS included various honors that bolstered Augustus’ authority.
What did the Senate grant Augustus during the Second Constitutional Settlement (23BC)?
Tribune for life and maius proconsular imperium
These titles enhanced his authority over consuls and provincial governors.
What did Suetonius say about Augustus restoring the republic?
“Twice Augustus seriously thought of restoring the republic”: after defeating MA, and when he was ill and on his death bed (he recovered) [Suetonius, Deified Augustus, 28]
Many historians, including Dio Cassius, viewed his rule as autocratic.
What does Ronald Syme say on the topic
Although he ruled like a monarch he could claim that his power came from the people and Senate, so maintains a republican façade
This reflects the propaganda surrounding his image.
What does Ovid say about Augustus?
“You were Rome’s lord and master – he simply princeps, our first citizen.” [Ovid, Fasti 2.142]
This award was significant in establishing his moral authority.
