11/10/2024 : Monuments and Memory in the Age of Augustus lecture 1

Introduction to the Module

• The module titled "Monuments of Memory of the Age of Augustus" is a core course for students in the Department of Classics and Ancient History, focusing on Roman history and literature.

• The coordinator of the module, Professor Kaiser, introduced the course and noted the significant teaching format, mentioning that lectures will be enriched with contributions from various guest speakers after week four.

• Open lines of communication are encouraged, with students advised to direct questions regarding the module's overall structure to Professor Kaiser, while questions about specific content can be directed to seminar leaders.

Understanding the Content

• This module discusses the historical transition from the Roman Republic to the Roman Empire, emphasizing that Rome was already an empire even before formally becoming one.

• The significance of the year 29 B.C. is highlighted, particularly regarding Octavian's triple triumph upon returning to Rome after significant military victories, marking critical transitions in Roman governance.

Key Terminology: Octavian vs. Augustus

• Octavian will be referred to until January 27 B.C., after which he is known as Augustus. This distinction is important for accuracy in historical context.

• The speaker emphasizes that using the correct terminology is crucial since Augustus was not referred to as Octavian by contemporaries, who often referred to him simply as "Caesar," creating potential confusion with Julius Caesar.

Syllabus Overview

• The course content is mapped out over 22 teaching weeks, with a structured syllabus that includes a mix of lectures, seminars, and formative assessments. Students will have six seminars spread throughout the term.

• The readings will include critical texts like Virgil's Aeneid, Suetonius' Life of Augustus, and the Res Gestae, supplemented by a sourcebook, "The Age of Augustus," edited by Melvin Cowley.

The Significance of Assignments and Deadlines

• Two formative assignments will be integral to the learning process, with specific deadlines established for submissions. All assignments should be submitted by 2 p.m. on the designated dates.

• In preparation for the examinations, the course will involve both commentaries and essay writing focused on analyzing source material, fostering the development of scholarly skills among students.

Seminar Structure and Topics

• Each seminar is designed to build essential skills, such as how to write commentaries and analyze visual material, while remaining closely aligned with the themes and subjects dictated by the Age of Augustus.

• Moreover, the course includes opportunities for peer marking as part of a pilot project aimed at enhancing students' analytical abilities through collaboration and feedback.

• Topics in upcoming seminars will cover areas like Augusta's infrastructure projects in Rome, relationships between the emperor and the Senate, and social historical issues surrounding migration and gender in this period.

Additional Resources and Expectations

• The module includes access to online resources, and recordings of lectures will be made available to help students review content.

• An emphasis is placed on the importance of engaging with the module material through adequate preparatory reading prior to lectures for optimal understanding.

• Learning in the module heavily relies on students' commitment to the reading process; thus, students are encouraged to maintain enthusiasm for their studies akin to that which motivated their application to the program.

Conclusion: Key Themes

• The course's pivotal aim is to convey a nuanced understanding of the complexities surrounding the Age of Augustus, including political, social, and cultural shifts.

• Recognizing the role of Augustus in shaping the Roman Empire will serve as a cornerstone for further exploration in both Roman history and broader classical studies.

Introduction to the Module

The module titled "Monuments of Memory of the Age of Augustus" is a core course for students in the Department of Classics and Ancient History, focusing on an in-depth exploration of Roman history and literature during the critical transitional period of the Roman Republic into the Roman Empire. Students will study the profound changes during the age of Augustus, which laid the foundation for Roman imperialism.

The coordinator of the module, Professor Kaiser, introduced the course and emphasized the importance of interactive learning. Lectures will be enriched with contributions from various guest speakers, including historians and archaeologists, to provide diverse perspectives and insights into the topic after week four.Open lines of communication are encouraged, with students advised to direct questions regarding the module's overall structure directly to Professor Kaiser. For questions about specific content, students should reach out to seminar leaders who specialize in those areas.

Understanding the Content

This module discusses the historical transition from the Roman Republic to the Roman Empire, highlighting that Rome functioned as an empire even prior to its formal designation as such. The significance of the year 29 B.C. is particularly emphasized, relating to Octavian's triple triumph upon returning to Rome after decisive military victories over Mark Antony and Cleopatra. This event symbolically marks critical transitions in Roman governance and the consolidation of power under Augustus.

Key Terminology: Octavian vs. Augustus

Until January 27 B.C., Octavian will be referred to as such; after this date, he is known as Augustus. This distinction is essential for historical accuracy, as the terminology used reflects the evolving nature of Roman political identity. The speaker emphasizes that using the correct terminology is critical since Augustus was not referred to as Octavian by contemporaries, who often referred to him simply as "Caesar." This creates potential confusion with Julius Caesar, adding layers to the understanding of Roman nomenclature and power.

Syllabus Overview

The course content is meticulously mapped out over 22 teaching weeks, providing a structured syllabus that combines a variety of educational modalities including lectures, seminars, and formative assessments. Students will attend six seminars spread throughout the term that delve deeper into assigned readings.Readings will include critical classical texts such as Virgil's Aeneid, which examines themes of duty and fate; Suetonius' Life of Augustus, offering biographical insights into Augustus’ reign; and the Res Gestae, which outlines Augustus' accomplishments and propaganda. Additionally, students will engage with a sourcebook, "The Age of Augustus," edited by Melvin Cowley, providing valuable context and critical analysis from contemporary historians.

The Significance of Assignments and Deadlines

Two formative assignments will be integral to the learning process, with specific deadlines established for submissions to ensure timely feedback and development. All assignments should be submitted by 2 p.m. on the designated dates to facilitate grading and provide opportunities for subsequent discussions. In preparation for the examinations, the course will incorporate both commentaries and essay writing focused on analyzing source material, fostering the development of scholarly skills among students crucial for their academic growth.

Seminar Structure and Topics

Each seminar is meticulously designed to build essential scholarly skills, such as how to effectively write commentaries and analyze visual material, while remaining closely aligned with themes and subjects dictated by the Age of Augustus. Moreover, the course includes opportunities for peer marking as part of a pilot project aimed at enhancing students' analytical abilities through collaboration and constructive feedback.Topics in upcoming seminars will include an analysis of Augustus' infrastructure projects in Rome, exploring how these initiatives enhanced his political power; the intricate relationships between the emperor and the Senate, examining power dynamics and political maneuvering; and social historical issues surrounding migration and gender during this transformative period in Roman society.

Additional Resources and Expectations

The module provides access to a range of online resources, including academic journals and databases, while recordings of lectures will be made available to help students review content and reinforce key themes.An emphasis is placed on engaging with the module material through adequate preparatory reading prior to lectures to facilitate optimal understanding of complex concepts. Learning in the module relies heavily on students' commitment to the reading process; thus, students are encouraged to maintain enthusiasm for their studies akin to that which motivated their application to the program.

Conclusion: Key Themes

The primary aim of the course is to convey a nuanced understanding of the complexities surrounding the Age of Augustus, including significant political, social, and cultural shifts that shaped not only Rome but also the trajectory of Western civilization. Recognizing the pivotal role of Augustus in consolidating and shaping the Roman Empire will serve as a cornerstone for further exploration in both Roman history and broader classical studies, illustrating the enduring impact of this era on contemporary society.