Discordia

Definition

Discordia refers to the concept of discord or conflict, often personified as a deity in ancient Roman culture. It represents the chaos and strife that can arise in society, as well as the challenges to harmony and order. This idea is crucial in understanding how various virtues and concepts were visualized and depicted in art, especially during the Augustan period when peace and unity were heavily promoted.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In Roman mythology, discordia was often depicted as a goddess who incited conflict among mortals and deities alike.
2. The personification of discordia served as a foil to the idealized figures of peace and harmony that were celebrated during the reign of Augustus.
3. Art from the Augustan period frequently included imagery related to discordia to remind viewers of the fragility of peace and the importance of unity.
4. The famous story of the 'Golden Apple' involves discordia, highlighting how her influence can lead to significant consequences, such as the Trojan War.
5. The use of discordia in art and literature reflects societal anxieties about maintaining order and cohesion in a time of political change.

Review Questions

• How does the concept of discordia contrast with the ideals promoted during Augustus's reign?
  • Discordia embodies conflict and chaos, which sharply contrasts with Augustus's promotion of peace and stability through Pax Romana. Augustus aimed to create a unified Rome after years of civil strife, making the personification of discordia a poignant reminder of what could happen if harmony was not upheld. This juxtaposition can be seen in various artworks where peace is celebrated alongside warnings about the dangers posed by discordia.
• In what ways did the representation of discordia in Roman art serve societal purposes during the Augustan era?
  • Representations of discordia in Roman art served to remind citizens of the potential for conflict that lurked beneath the surface of societal progress. By depicting discordia alongside virtues like concordia (harmony), artists highlighted the importance of unity while warning against divisions that could threaten stability. This portrayal not only reinforced Augustus's messaging about peace but also encouraged audiences to value collective harmony over personal disputes.
• Evaluate the role of discordia within Roman mythology and its impact on broader cultural narratives about conflict and resolution.
  • Discordia plays a pivotal role in Roman mythology by illustrating how conflict can arise even among gods and mortals, thereby influencing cultural narratives about human nature and society. Her presence signifies that strife is an inherent part of life, which can lead to major events such as wars or social upheaval. By engaging with these themes, Romans were able to reflect on their own experiences with conflict while emphasizing the necessity for resolution through unity and virtue, reinforcing cultural values during Augustus's transformative leadership.

Related terms

Pax Romana:

A period of relative peace and stability across the Roman Empire, lasting approximately from 27 BC to 180 AD, established under Augustus.

Virtus: The Roman concept of virtue, encompassing qualities like bravery, strength, and moral excellence, often contrasted with discordia.

Fama: Personification of rumor and fame in Roman mythology, representing how discord can be fueled by misinformation and public perception.