Christian Rome and The Aeneid - Topics

What was the main point of Confessions?

Augustine’s autobiography exploring his youth and conversion to Christianity and his reflections on sin, grace, and the nature of God.

What was the main point of City of God?

Defends that Christianity goes beyond Rome and is divine truth in contrast to worldly kingdoms.

How does Augustine use Livy as an example in City of God?

Uses Livy’s stories to argue that pagans just care about worldly possessions and reputation, not divinity and virtue. Example is Lucretia (rape and suicide), who Livy praises for her sacrifice for protecting honor but Augustine says was selfish

How does Augustine bridge old Roman religion to Christianity?

He rejected roman myths as distractions (ex. Dido) from God and used philosophy as a basis for how to get to God, arguing for a rational understanding of faith while incorporating moral teachings from Roman philosophy.

How does Suetonius describe Nero?

He was tyrannical and selfish, he persecuted Christians and didn’t care about Rome, caused the great fire

How does Suetonius describe Caligula?

Insane and extravagant, said he was trying to play God and demanded to be worshiped as a deity, known for cruelty and excess.

Why does Suetonius portray emperors this way and is he reliable?

More for entertainment than fact, wanted to define morality, most are likely exaggerated due to Christian bias.

How do Nero and Caligula conflict with “good” emperors?

Both are cruel and self absorbed, compared to Augustus or Aeneas who are pietous and serve the state

How to Christian martyrs compare to Roman heroes?

Martyrs are sacrificed for the sake of their religion and show devotion and piety to God. Roman heroes often are sacrificed through battle or honor, often seeking glory and recognition. Both show courage and bravery.

What traits describe Christian heroes compared to Roman ones?

Christian heroes are often virtuous and value faith and forgiveness. Roman heroes focus on strength and value honor and glory.

What values does Virgil promote in The Aeneid?

Fate and destiny, divinity and piety, the importance of duty and loyalty to one's country.

How are Aeneas and Augustus linked?

Aeneas is often seen as a symbol of the Roman ideals that Augustus aimed to promote, representing piety, duty, and the destined founding of Rome, which Augustus used to validate his own rule.

How does The Aeneid interact Livy, Plutarch, and Augustine?

Virgil reshapes Livy and Plutarch's narratives to emphasize themes of destiny and moral virtue, while Augustine later draws on its moral framework to discuss Christian theology.