# Reign of Augustus, in Which Ovid Flourished explained — Metamorphoses

> Chapter companion for Metamorphoses by Ovid.

## What happens

The poet praises Augustus as a ruler superior to his predecessors, comparing him to Jove and other legendary figures, and prays for a late day when Augustus will join the gods in heaven.

## Themes in this chapter

### Divine Power and Human Folly

Augustus is likened to Jove, emphasizing the divine right and power of the emperor, while human rulers are subject to fate.

### Mortality and Immortality

The prayer for Augustus to join the gods after a long life highlights the transition from mortal ruler to immortal deity.

## Character check-ins

### Augustus

Praised as the supreme earthly ruler, surpassing his predecessor Julius Caesar, and compared to Jove.

### Julius Caesar

Mentioned as the glorious offspring and predecessor of Augustus, whose deeds are surpassed by Augustus.

### Jove

Used as a comparison to Augustus, ruling the heavens as Augustus rules the earth.

### Mars

Invoked as the parent of Quirinus, founder of Rome.

### Romulus

Referenced as Quirinus, the founder of the Roman state.

## Key lines

> Jove rules the heavens, the earth Augustus sways; Each claims a monarch’s, and a father’s praise.

Jupiter governs the sky, while Augustus governs the earth; both deserve the honor of a king and a father.

_This line directly compares Augustus to Jove, reinforcing his supreme authority._

> Oh grant, that day may claim our sorrows late, When loved Augustus shall submit to fate, Visit those seats, where gods and heroes dwell, And leave, in tears, the world he ruled so well!

May the day when Augustus dies be far off, so he may join the gods and heroes, leaving a mourning world behind.

_The poet expresses a wish for Augustus's long life and eventual apotheosis._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/metamorphoses_se/chapters/reign-of-augustus-in-which-ovid-flourished
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/metamorphoses_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/metamorphoses_se/chapters