Propaganda In The Aeneid

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Virgil’s epic poem, the Aeneid, is a classical Latin contribution circa 29-19 BCE that traces the journey of Aeneas, a Trojan, to Italy where he became an important figure in establishing what would become the Roman Empire. His wanderings from Troy to Italy take up a full six of twelve constituent books, with the latter six addressing the Trojan War against the Italians. Virgil’s account implies a godly conclusion in the Roman victory that means the end of a destructive civil war. Whatever a reader’s thoughts on empire or military government may be, the time seems to have been one of turmoil, such that a stable administration of any kind might be welcome. The ideal of order and stability is part of the Roman understanding of good or effective government that is taken for granted, many centuries later. …show more content…
It is a strongly moral and psychological travelogue that happens to include remarks on Caesar Augustus (63 BCE - 14 CE), the adoptive son of Julius Caesar who ruled from 27 BCE until his death. There is mention of the power of Rome and the Carthaginian Wars that seem will give way to the new Roman order. The Aeneid is not a work of mere Augustan propaganda, as it gives many details that can provide a sense of the times, popular beliefs and also the moral values seen as unique to Roman civilization. It seems a more moral than political saga. It is true that Virgil (70-19 BCE) was appointed by Augustus to write the work in question. It is also true that Virgil’s views on the new dynasty and how it gained power seem to fluctuate. His hero, Aeneas, has several periods of doubt and emotional turmoil through which he prevails. Virgil was also experienced at producing poetry on demand. He had earlier become known for his Eclogues and Georgics and may have welcomed the challenge of writing what became a national epic of ancient
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