Augustan Period

Definition

The Augustan Period refers to the era of Roman history during the reign of Emperor Augustus, from 27 BCE to 14 CE, marked by significant political stability and cultural flourishing. This time saw a shift in artistic expression as Rome transitioned from a Republic to an Empire, influencing both sculptural and pictorial arts through themes of propaganda, idealism, and a strong connection to mythology and history.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Augustan Period is characterized by the establishment of the Pax Romana, a long period of relative peace and stability across the Roman Empire.
2. Art during this time was heavily influenced by Greek styles, leading to a blend of realism and idealism in sculptures and paintings.
3. Monuments such as the Ara Pacis (Altar of Peace) were constructed to celebrate Augustus's achievements and promote his image as a bringer of peace.
4. Literature flourished during this period, with poets like Virgil and Horace producing works that reinforced Augustus's ideals and values.
5. Augustus commissioned numerous public works and artworks that not only showcased Roman grandeur but also served to propagate his political power.

Review Questions

• How did Augustus use art as a tool for propaganda during his reign?
  • Augustus skillfully used art to create a favorable image of his leadership through various forms of sculpture, architecture, and literature. By commissioning works like the Ara Pacis, he promoted themes of peace, prosperity, and divine favor that directly linked his rule with stability for the Roman people. This use of art helped solidify his position as a powerful ruler while also shaping public perception in favor of the imperial system.
• What are some key characteristics of sculptural and pictorial arts that emerged during the Augustan Period compared to earlier Roman styles?
  • During the Augustan Period, sculptural and pictorial arts transitioned from a focus on verism to idealism, showcasing figures with youthful features and heroic attributes. This shift reflected Augustus's desire to present himself and his regime in an uplifting manner. Additionally, there was a notable incorporation of mythological themes and historical narratives, which emphasized Roman values and connected Augustus's lineage to divine ancestry.
• Evaluate the long-term impact of the Augustan Period on subsequent Roman art and culture.
  • The Augustan Period laid the foundation for future Roman art by establishing standards of idealized beauty and thematic representation that would dominate throughout the Empire. The focus on propaganda through art not only solidified Augustus's legacy but also influenced how later emperors commissioned works to project their power. Furthermore, the integration of mythology with political narrative set a precedent that shaped artistic production for centuries, ensuring that art remained a critical tool for governance and identity within Rome.

Related terms

Propaganda: The strategic use of art and literature to promote a particular political agenda or ideology, heavily utilized during the Augustan Period to glorify Augustus and his regime.

Verism: An artistic style that emphasizes realism and the depiction of age, often seen in Republican portraiture, contrasting with the idealism that emerged during the Augustan Period.

Imperial Cult: A practice that involved the veneration of the emperor as a god, which gained prominence during the Augustan Period and influenced artistic representation.