Clipeus virtutis

Definition

The clipeus virtutis, or 'shield of virtue,' was an emblematic piece of Roman art that represented the virtues and achievements of a leader, particularly Augustus. This shield often depicted allegorical figures and scenes that celebrated military victories and moral excellence, thus reinforcing the ideals of strength, courage, and piety within the Augustan cultural renaissance and public propaganda.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The clipeus virtutis was given to Augustus by the Senate in 27 BCE as recognition of his military accomplishments and his role in restoring peace to Rome after years of civil war.
2. It served not only as a symbol of Augustus's virtues but also as propaganda to legitimize his rule and inspire loyalty among the Roman populace.
3. The imagery on the clipeus often included personifications of honor, valor, and victory, reinforcing Augustus's portrayal as a leader favored by the gods.
4. The concept of the clipeus virtutis reflects the broader cultural renaissance during Augustus's reign, where art was used strategically to communicate political messages.
5. Through its representations, the clipeus virtutis contributed significantly to shaping Augustan ideology by aligning personal virtue with public duty and success.

Review Questions

• How did the clipeus virtutis function as a tool of political propaganda during Augustus's reign?
  • The clipeus virtutis served as a powerful symbol of Augustus's achievements and virtues, effectively reinforcing his image as a stabilizing leader in a time of turmoil. By depicting allegorical figures that represented honor and victory, it communicated Augustus’s successful restoration of peace to Rome. This not only legitimated his rule but also inspired loyalty among citizens who were reminded of their leader's greatness through this emblematic art.
• Discuss how the clipeus virtutis reflects the visual rhetoric used in public art under Augustus.
  • The clipeus virtutis exemplifies the visual rhetoric employed by Augustus to convey messages of power and virtue. Its design incorporated symbols and imagery that aligned Augustus with divine favor and military prowess, thereby promoting a narrative that linked personal excellence with public service. This approach was part of a broader artistic strategy where public artworks communicated state ideology and strengthened Augustus’s authority through visual storytelling.
• Evaluate the impact of the clipeus virtutis on Augustan ideology and how it influenced perceptions of power in Rome.
  • The clipeus virtutis significantly shaped Augustan ideology by intertwining personal virtue with imperial power. It suggested that true authority came not merely from military success but also from moral integrity and civic responsibility. This linkage elevated Augustus as a model ruler whose virtues were essential for maintaining order and prosperity in Rome. The influence of this ideology extended beyond Augustus’s reign, setting a precedent for how future emperors would be portrayed in relation to virtues such as valor and piety.

Related terms

Virtus: A Roman virtue that encompasses qualities such as bravery, moral integrity, and strength, often associated with both individuals and the state.

Ara Pacis: An altar dedicated to Pax, the Roman goddess of peace, which features intricate reliefs symbolizing the prosperity and peace achieved under Augustus's rule.

Imperium: The supreme authority or command in ancient Rome, often held by emperors, which conferred military and political power.