Res Gestae Divi Augusti
The "Res Gestae Divi Augusti," meaning "the deeds of the emperor Augustus," is a significant historical document that details the accomplishments of Rome's first emperor, Augustus. Originally inscribed on bronze tablets at his tomb in Rome, the text has been reconstructed through various surviving copies, notably at the Temple of Rome and Augustus in Ankara, Turkey. This inscription serves as a public record of Augustus's achievements, including his military victories, public offices, and contributions to infrastructure, showcasing his role in the transformation of the Roman state.
The "Res Gestae" is reflective of the norms of Roman aristocratic epitaphs, which typically highlight the public lives and honors of individuals. Augustus's narrative emphasizes his pioneering actions and successes, often crediting himself for the triumphs of his generals and significant events during his reign, regardless of his direct involvement. While it contains a wealth of information regarding his public persona, the document tends to offer a brief overview of his domestic policies. The overall tone is markedly self-promotional, aiming to solidify Augustus's legacy as a pivotal leader in Roman history. This text is valuable not only for its content but also for its insight into the political culture and propaganda of ancient Rome.
Res Gestae Divi Augusti
Related civilization: Imperial Rome.
Also known as:Monumentum Ancyranum.
Date: by 13 c.e., with slight posthumous editing in 14 c.e.
Locale: Rome
Authorship: Augustus
Res Gestae Divi Augusti
Literally “the deeds of the emperor Augustus,” this list of his accomplishments was inscribed on bronze tablets outside his tomb at Rome. The original is long lost, but copies and translations inscribed elsewhere—most notably at the temple of Rome and Augustus in Ankara, Turkey—allow virtually the entire text to be reconstructed.
Like traditional epitaphs of other Roman aristocrats, Res Gestae Divi Augusti (The Deeds of Augustus, 1908) focuses on public accomplishments and honors: magistracies and priesthoods held, military victories, public buildings, and donations from his private purse. Also typical is its emphasis on instances in which Augustus can claim to have acted first, best, or most. Augustus also takes credit for victories won by his generals, buildings built by his family, and events (such as the arrival of ambassadors from India) that only coincidentally happened under his reign. His many domestic policy initiatives are treated only briefly and generally. Augustus puts a favorable spin on many items but never gives extensive narrative or justification.
Bibliography
Brunt, Peter, and J. M. Moore. Res Gestae Divi Augusti. Oxford, England: Oxford University Press, 1967.
Galinsky, Karl. Augustan Culture. Princeton, N.J.: Princeton University Press, 1996.