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

Abstract

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.

Keywords

• emperor augustus
• “res gestae divi augusti”
• roman empire
• principate
• quantitative data
• numerals