Power and Public Image in the Cultural Representations of Augustus in Ancient Rome

In my thesis I am analyzing the art, architecture and literature of the Augustan period in Rome. I look at how Augustus, as emperor and patron, used these media to present this new position in Rome and establish this as a new age in her history, one that marks the transition from Republic to Empire. The main themes that are considered are how he uses history and Republican tradition to his advantage, the peace that is established, how he introduces the concept of dynasty to the Romans and finally his own public image. By looking at how power is presented and addressing issues of propaganda I am working to see how he was successful where men before him failed in establishing absolute rule in Rome. I also address issues of creative control; how much influence can we credit to Augustus and how much creative freedom did authors and artists of the period as have