Augustus, the first emperor of the Roman Empire, is a significant historical figure who played a crucial role in shaping the course of Western civilization. Teaching students facts about Augustus, his life, reign, and legacy, can help them develop a deeper understanding of ancient history, politics, and culture.
Why teach Augustus?
Augustus was a transformative figure who ruled Rome at a time of great political upheaval and social change. After years of civil war, he managed to restore stability, establish the imperial system, and launch major public works, such as roads, aqueducts, and temples. He also expanded the Roman Empire, conquering Egypt, and establishing a 200-year-long Pax Romana, which brought peace and prosperity to the Mediterranean world. By teaching students about Augustus, educators can help them understand how power, leadership, and ideologies shape the world they live in.
What are the key facts about Augustus? Augustus was born as Gaius Octavius in 63 BCE and became the adopted son of Julius Caesar. After Caesar’s assassination, he emerged as the leader of the Caesarian faction and defeated his rivals, Mark Antony and Cleopatra, at the Battle of Actium in 31 BCE, cementing his rule over the Roman world. He then changed his name to Augustus, which means “the revered one,” and ruled as the first Roman emperor from 27 BCE until his death in 14 CE.
Some other key facts about Augustus include:
– He was a master of propaganda, using images, inscriptions, and sculptures to promote his achievements and image as a benevolent leader.
– He reformed the Roman military, creating a professional army that was loyal to him and safeguarded the borders of the empire.
– He sponsored the arts, including literature, poetry, and architecture, and wrote a famous memoir called The Res Gestae, which chronicled his accomplishments and personal philosophy.
– He established the imperial cult, which made him a god in the eyes of his subjects and facilitated his deification after death.
– He created a system of succession, which ensured that power would pass to his chosen successor, rather than being contested by rival claimants.
How to teach Augustus?
Teaching Augustus can be done through a variety of methods, including lectures, discussions, readings, primary sources, multimedia, and simulations. Some strategies that can be useful include:
– Providing historical context: Start by discussing the Roman Republic, the Civil War, and the period of Augustus’s reign. Focus on key themes, such as power, propaganda, religion, and social change, and encourage students to ask questions and make connections to their own lives.
– Using primary sources: Bring in primary sources, such as Augustus’s writings, contemporary accounts, sculptures, and coins, and ask students to analyze them for evidence of Augustus’s beliefs and achievements.
– Engaging in debate: Encourage students to take on different perspectives and argue for or against Augustus’s policies and actions. Provide prompts, such as “Was Augustus a good emperor?” or “Did Augustus promote or restrict freedom?”
– Creating projects: Assign students to create projects, such as timelines, biographies, maps, or artworks that showcase their understanding of Augustus. Provide rubrics and guidelines, and ask students to present their projects to the class.
In conclusion, teaching students facts about Augustus is an important part of any ancient history or social studies curriculum. By understanding the achievements, challenges, and legacy of this remarkable leader, students can gain a broader perspective on how societies and systems evolve over time and learn lessons that can be applied to their own lives and communities.
