Expressiveness of numbers in “The Achievements of the Divine Augustus”

Bibliographic Data

ID22097831
AuthorsAlexander Valentinovich Makhlaiuk (0000-0002-7758-2374, Lobachevsky National Research State University of Nizhny Novgorod)
Year2024
Volume16
Issue3
Pages287-303
Publication date2024-11-15
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueRUDN Journal of World History (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 2312-8127 • E-ISSN: 2312-833X
PublisherPeoples' Friendship University of Russia (PUBLISHER • RU)
DOI10.22363/2312-8127-2024-16-3-287-303
LanguageEN
References cited16

The article examines the nature and significance of the various numerical and statistical data used in the “Achievements of the Divine Augustus” ( Res gestae Divi Augusti ), and seeks to demonstrate what reality and how they describe, what impression they are designed to produce. It is concluded that the numerical data of the “Achievements” contain important, in many cases unique and quite reliable information, showing the grandeur of the princeps’ achievements. There is the conscious focus on the exceptionally abundant use of numerals, which both in dating formulas and in the actual statistical information give the narrative a businesslike, concrete character, allowing to avoid excessive and unfounded pathos, but at the same time, with irresistible obviousness, show the unconditional superiority of Augustus as a benefactor, military and state leader in comparison with both contemporaries and predecessors, turning an autobiographical account into a political testament addressed to the “City and the World” and establishing the key ideological parameters of an ideal ruler

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