Augustus, 31 BC-AD 14: Practice Questions

Which document, written by Augustus towards the end of his life, provides an official account of his military achievements, building programmes, and honors?

Under the reign of Tiberius, how does the historian Tacitus generally characterize the development of the maiestas (treason) trials?

How did the role of Agrippina the Younger change during the early part of Nero’s reign, and how did this affect the presentation of Nero as emperor?

In the Constitutional Settlement of 27 BC, what title did the Senate grant Octavian to signify his status and religious sanctity?

In the context of the constitutional settlement of 23 BC, which specific power allowed Augustus to influence the legislative process and protect his position without holding the consulship?

During the reign of Nero (AD 54–68), what were the specific roles played by his mother Agrippina and the Piso conspiracy in shaping the political stability of his principate?

Using your knowledge of the reign of Augustus (31 BC–AD 14), explain how he utilized constitutional and religious means to establish his authority. In your answer, you must address the following points:

a) The significance of the constitutional settlements of 27 BC and 23 BC in providing a legal basis for his power while appearing to restore the Republic.
b) How Augustus promoted the revival of traditional Roman values and religion, and the role of the Imperial Cult both inside and outside of Rome.
c) How the depiction of Augustus in poetry and coinage contributed to the presentation of his victory at Actium and the establishment of his dynasty.