The Lives of the Caesars · Chapter
Book II: The Deified Augustus explained
This chapter provides a detailed account of Augustus's rise to power, his military campaigns, political maneuvers, and the establishment of his sole rule.
What happens
This chapter provides a detailed account of Augustus's rise to power, his military campaigns, political maneuvers, and the establishment of his sole rule. It covers his early life, his response to Julius Caesar's assassination, the formation of the Second Triumvirate, the proscriptions, and his eventual consolidation of power. The chapter also discusses his building projects, moral reforms, and his reflections on the state of the Roman Republic.
Themes in this chapter
Ambition and the Pursuit of Power
Augustus's relentless drive to avenge Caesar and secure sole control of the Roman state, including his manipulation of the political and military landscape.
Political Intrigue and Violence
The chapter details numerous instances of political maneuvering, betrayal, and violence, such as the proscriptions, the suspected poisoning of consuls, and the execution of political rivals.
Public Image and Propaganda
Augustus's careful cultivation of his public image, including his building projects, his edicts about restoring the Republic, and his efforts to present himself as the author of a stable government.
Dynastic Legacy and Family
The chapter emphasizes Augustus's family background, his inheritance from Julius Caesar, and his efforts to establish a lasting dynasty.
Characters to notice
- Augustus
The central figure of the chapter, whose rise from heir of Julius Caesar to sole ruler of Rome is chronicled in detail.
- Julius Caesar
Augustus's uncle and adoptive father, whose assassination sets the stage for Augustus's actions.
- Mark Antony
Initially a colleague in the Triumvirate, later an opponent in the civil wars, including the Battle of Actium.
- Brutus
One of Caesar's assassins, targeted by Augustus in the civil wars.
- Cassius
Another of Caesar's assassins, opposed by Augustus at the Battle of Philippi.
- Cicero
Mentioned in letters praising Augustus's father, and as a figure from the political landscape of the time.
- Pompey the Great
Connected to Augustus's maternal family through Balbus, and his son Sextus Pompeius was an opponent in the civil wars.
- Livia Drusilla
Augustus's wife, mentioned in the context of his family and household.
Key passages
“He so beautified it that he could justly boast that he had found it built of brick and left it in marble.”
Augustus transformed Rome from a city of brick into a city of marble through extensive building projects.
This famous quote encapsulates Augustus's ambitious urban renewal and his legacy as a builder.
“May it be my privilege to establish the State in a firm and secure position, and reap from that act the fruit that I desire; but only if I may be called the author of the best possible government, and bear with me the hope when I die that the foundations which I have laid for the State will remain unshaken.”
Augustus expressed his wish to create a stable and enduring government, hoping to be remembered as its founder.
This edict reflects Augustus's desire for a lasting legacy and his justification for retaining power.
