Event Title
Eulogy for the Republic: Virgil's Anti-Augustan Longing for the Roman Republic in the Aeneid
Location
University of Richmond, Richmond, Virginia
Document Type
Paper
Description
For centuries many scholars have identified the Aeneid as a piece of propaganda designed to help legitimize the regime of Augustus Caesar. However, this analysis finds that there is an important subtext in the piece through which Virgil criticizes the Emperor. By analyzing the direct and indirect references to Augustus and potential commentary behind those references, it becomes clear the Virgil opposed many of Augustus' actions, longing for a return to the principles and governance of the Roman Republic and seeking to remind the readers of the glory of the Republic through his commentary in the piece.
Included in
Eulogy for the Republic: Virgil's Anti-Augustan Longing for the Roman Republic in the Aeneid
University of Richmond, Richmond, Virginia
For centuries many scholars have identified the Aeneid as a piece of propaganda designed to help legitimize the regime of Augustus Caesar. However, this analysis finds that there is an important subtext in the piece through which Virgil criticizes the Emperor. By analyzing the direct and indirect references to Augustus and potential commentary behind those references, it becomes clear the Virgil opposed many of Augustus' actions, longing for a return to the principles and governance of the Roman Republic and seeking to remind the readers of the glory of the Republic through his commentary in the piece.
Comments
Department: Classical Studies
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Dean Simpson