Res gestae

Definition

Res gestae refers to the 'things done' or the accomplishments and events that are significant in the context of Roman history and governance. This term encompasses the achievements and actions of individuals, particularly emperors, and is often associated with how these events were recorded and celebrated within the framework of imperial cults and ruler worship in ancient Rome.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Res gestae served as a vital tool for emperors to project their accomplishments and legitimize their rule through inscriptions and public monuments.
2. The most famous example of res gestae is found in the 'Res Gestae Divi Augusti,' which is a first-person account of the achievements of Emperor Augustus.
3. Inscriptions detailing res gestae were often placed in prominent public locations, allowing citizens to view the accomplishments of their rulers.
4. The concept helped reinforce the idea of the emperor's divine right to rule, blending politics with religious worship.
5. Res gestae was not just about individual achievements but also reflected broader societal values and collective memory within the Roman Empire.

Review Questions

• How did res gestae influence the way emperors presented their rule to the Roman public?
  • Res gestae allowed emperors to effectively communicate their achievements and contributions to society, thus shaping public perception. By emphasizing significant events and accomplishments through inscriptions and monuments, they crafted a narrative that reinforced their authority and legitimacy. This strategic presentation was crucial in maintaining loyalty among citizens and showcasing the benefits of imperial rule.
• Discuss the relationship between res gestae and the imperial cult in ancient Rome.
  • Res gestae played a central role in the imperial cult by providing a basis for deifying emperors. The accomplishments detailed in res gestae served as evidence of an emperor's divine favor, enhancing their status as not just political leaders but also as semi-divine figures. This connection fostered loyalty among subjects who were encouraged to worship these rulers, intertwining civic duty with religious devotion.
• Evaluate the impact of res gestae on Roman culture and collective memory regarding leadership and governance.
  • Res gestae significantly shaped Roman culture by establishing a framework for how leadership was perceived and memorialized. It created a legacy that celebrated certain individuals while erasing others through practices like damnatio memoriae. This selective memory influenced societal values by highlighting virtues such as military success, civic contributions, and divine favor, ultimately affecting how future generations understood power dynamics and governance in Rome.

Related terms

Imperial Cult: The practice of venerating emperors as divine figures, which played a key role in Roman religion and politics.

Damnatio Memoriae: A formal condemnation of an individual's memory, often involving the destruction of their images and names from public records.

Panegyric: A public speech or published text that praises someone highly, often used in the context of glorifying emperors and their achievements.