RH 4/8/2026

Introduction

• Recap from last class, discussing topics such as:
    - Approval of students' PCRs.
    - Engaging questions from students.
    - Discussion of narratives and connections to topics like Pneuma and Rahak.

Discussion of Pneuma and Norena's Article

• Explored whether students are persuaded by Armenian arguments, noting:
    - No absolute right or wrong answer regarding persuasion.
    - Acknowledgment of diverse opinions on the subject, even among scholars.
    - Importance of understanding Armenia's methodology.
      - Focus on historical and topographical evidence.
      - Need to locate the site of Augustus.

• Transition to Norena's article:
    - Article reevaluates historical and topographical evidence.
    - Emphasizes careful reading of sources, addressing propaganda associated with Augustus.

Campus Martius and Augustus' Narrative

• Understanding Augustus' propaganda through monuments
    - Campus Martius as key location.
    - Notable structures mentioned:
      - Ara Pacis (Altar of Peace).
      - Mausoleum of Augustus.

• Discussion about the ustrinum (cremation site):
    - Clarified that the cremation site is symbolic of Augustus and the central narrative.

Literary and Historical Evidence Used by Norena

• Norena uses literary sources and archaeological findings to support arguments about Augustus:
    - Described the mausoleum's construction and its symbolic features:
      - Marble wall surrounding the crematorium spotted in discussions.
    - Local topography supports Norena's arguments regarding site evidence.
    - Analyzed previous scholarly arguments surrounding Augustus in the Campus Martius, identifying a lack of consensus.

Methodological Approaches in Historical Analysis

• Importance of utilizing various viewpoints to understand history:
    - Norena's argument emphasized the presence of historical narratives and architectural evidence.
    - Engaged with different scholars' theories to present a broad understanding.

• Questions raised in class regarding certainty of historical events, such as the placement of significant sites.

Reflection on Roman Governance

• Discussion of the transition from Republic to Empire under Augustus:
    - Augustus depicted as both a powerful ruler and a savvy political figure.
    - Managing Senate relations as crucial to governance.

• Transition into discussions of Tiberius:
    - Family connections: Augustus marries Tiberius to ensure a succession plan.
    - Tiberius’ rise amid Augustus’ political maneuvering.

Tiberius’ Rule and Historical Context

• Overview of Tiberius becoming emperor after Augustus in 14 CE:
    - Uncertainty of political power distribution in the Senate.
    - Tiberius as an unexpected successor due to Augustus’ adopted heirs dying.
    - Need for a consensus among the Senate for governance and stabilization.

• Tiberius’ military focus and his diplomatic engagements with enemy states ( Parthians and Armenia) emphasized.

Building Projects and Public Works

• Tiberius’ architectural contributions, which were modest compared to Augustus:
    - Facilities built or restored for public use:
      - Castro for Praetorian Guard (camp outside city limits).
      - Horrea Sejana (grain storage).
      - Basilica Aemilia (law courts/storage).
      - Temple of Concordia (restoration indicating harmonious governance).

• Awareness of propaganda through construction choices:
    - Restorations keep Augustus’ legacy and create continuity in leadership perceptions.

Discussion of Tiberius' Later Years

• Examination of Tiberius’ withdrawal from Roman politics toward the end of his reign:
    - His decision to retreat to the island of Capri for peace and isolation.
    - Perception issues regarding leaders not in Rome.

• Succession concerns heightened during Tiberius’ time.

• Notable deaths within the royal family lead to fragmented political landscape and uncertainty.

Conclusion and Future Discussion

• Preparations for next classes, discussion of Caligula’s leadership.
    - Encourage further readings to understand the nuances of Roman imperial succession.

• Focus on contrasts between Augustus and Tiberius moving forward.