The Transition from Republic to Principate
Author Bio: Publius Cornelius Tacitus (AD 56 - ca. 117) – Senator and historian to the Roman Empire. Major works discuss and analyze the reign of previous emperors the span from the death of Augustus (AD 17) to the First Jewish-Roman War (AD 70). Analyzes the art of war and secure military communications. Lived in what is known as the Silver Age of Latin Literature. Often noted for his insights into the psychology of power politics.
Speaker: See above
Date/Context: The principate is considered the first era of the Roman Empire, extending from the reign of Augustus to the Crisis of the Third Century. The principate is characterized by a concerted effort on the part of the emperors to preserve the illusion of the formal continuance of the Roman Republic. Tacitus, a renowned orator, utilized his rhetorical gifts in his historical accounts. This particular speech was given during the European War. The whole meaning of the speech was to give an overlook on the war and the things that it resulted under the leadership of Augustus.
Summary: This excerpt discusses how Augustus blinded the people of the empire through bribery. As a result, he was beloved by the entire population. While soldiers died, nobles rose higher up the ladder of wealth, and it did not seem to bother anyone. Although outside provinces distrusted the Senate and the citizens, the empire itself was at peace because of the newly rising generation that did not experience the tragedies of the civil war during the years of the Republic. There was mass inequality, yet the public was content, and therefore Augustus stayed in power.
Key Quotation: “Stripped of equality, all looked up to the commands of a sovereign without the least apprehension for the present, while Augustus in the vigour of life, could maintain his own position, that of his house, and the general tranquility.” (177)
Tacitus was a renowned orator, and this is one of his many historical accounts. In this document, Tacitus focuses on Augustus Caesar's rise to power through bribery and distraction of the public. He stripped them of their rights in order to ensure his power, but also the safety of his people. The only other thing that I would add would be the first quote about Augustus's bribery.
ReplyDeleteTacitus provides a cynical, almost sarcastic, account of the period in which Rome transitioned from republic to empire. He mourns the liberty that is lost in the name of safety and security.
ReplyDelete"Augustus won over the soldiers with gifts, the populace with cheap [grain], an all men with the sweets of repose."