Augustan Culture

Grand political accomplishment and artistic productivity were the hallmarks of Augustus Caesars reign (31 B.C. to A.D. 14) which has served as a powerful model of achievement for societies throughout Western history. Although much research has been done on individual facets of Augustan culture Karl Galinskys book is the first in decades to present a unified overview one that brings together political and social history art literature architecture and religion. Weaving analysis and narrative throughout a richly illustrated text Galinsky provides not only an enjoyable account of the major ideas of the age but also an interpretation of the creative tensions and contradictions that made for its vitality and influence. Galinsky draws on source material ranging from coins and inscriptions to the major works of poetry and art and challenges the schematic concepts and dichotomies that have commonly been applied to Augustan culture. He demonstrates that this culture was neither monolithic nor the mere result of one mans will. Instead it was a nuanced process of evolution and experimentation. Augustan culture had many contributors as Galinsky demonstrates and their dynamic interactions resulted in a high point of creativity and complexity that explains the transcendence of the Augustan age. Far from being static its sophisticated literary and artistic monuments call for the active response and involvement of the reader and viewer even today.