Augustus and the Roman Republic

Catalog description

After several decades of civil war, Augustus set out to “restore the republic.” Yet when he died 45 years later, his political position was inherited by his stepson, Tiberius. Republican governance by Roman senate and people had morphed into a form of hereditary monarchy that would last for centuries. Nor was change limited to the political sphere. This period witnessed profound transformations to Roman society, religion, literature, art, and even the physical fabric of the city of Rome. This course explores all of these aspects of the dynamic period corresponding to Augustus’ lifespan (63 BC - AD 14). We will examine the breakdown of the Roman republican system, which resulted in the outbreak of a series of civil wars. Then we will investigate the various ways that Augustus sought to repair and renew a society that had been fractured by the wars from which he emerged victorious. We will also consider the responses to these reforms by inhabitants of Rome and the provinces. While the figure of Augustus looms large during this period, he was by no means the only agent of change, and the transformations he spearheaded were not always uncontested. The readings will be drawn largely from primary texts, including Augustus’ own account of his deeds (the Res Gestae ); selections from the works of Vergil, Horace, Ovid, and other contemporary authors; and Suetonius’ Life of Augustus . We will also pay close attention to the rich body of material evidence from the period, including sculptures, paintings, architecture, coins, and inscriptions. Satisfies Historical Thought requirement. Satisfies Classical Languages and Literature major requirement. Satisfies Classical Studies major and minor requirement Satisfies History major and minor requirement. Prerequisites & Notes Students at all levels welcome. Not offered in 2026-2027