xi, 474 pages : 25 cm Grand political accomplishment and artistic productivity were the hallmarks of Augustus Caesar's 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 Galinsky's 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 Includes bibliographical references (pages 435-460) and indexes Preface -- Introductions: The Augustan evolution -- Chapter 1. A principal concept: auctoritas -- Chapter 2. The restoration of the res publica -- Chapter 3. Ideas, ideals, and values -- Chapter 4. Art and architecture -- Chapter 5. Augustan literature -- Chapter 6. Religion -- Chapter 7. Central characteristics -- Chapter 8. Epilogue: auctor perpetuus -- Abbreviations for frequently cited works -- Notes -- Bibliography -- Provenience of illustrations -- Index of passages -- General index