The Significance of the Title Augustus in Ancient Rome
Augustus Caesar, the first Roman Emperor, played a pivotal role in the transformation of Rome from a republic to an empire. His full name was Gaius Octavius, who later changed his name to Gaius Julius Caesar Octavianus after being adopted by Julius Caesar, his great-uncle, in his will. This adoption led to Octavian being commonly referred to as Octavian before obtaining the title of Augustus from the Roman Senate in 27 BC.
A Brief History of Gaius Octavius
Gaius Octavius was born into a noble family but was not initially considered a political player until his great-uncle Julius Caesar, who recognized his potential. After Caesar's assassination in 44 BC, Octavius, then 19 years old, became involved in the power struggle and eventually emerged victorious. His victory at the Battle of Actium in 31 BC solidified his position, and he was granted the title of Augustus, a title rich in significance that symbolized his authority and the majesty of Rome.
The Meaning and Use of the Title Augustus
Contrary to popular belief, one did not need to be 'Caesar' to be granted the honorific of 'Augustus.' 'Caesar' is a family name that became associated with kings due to the caesarean birth of a founding member of the Julio-Claudian family. On the other hand, 'Augustus' or 'Augusta' is an honorific title that transformed into a person's name, often shortened to 'Augie' in modern times. The term 'Augustus' denotes being notable, great, or magnificent.
Initially, this title was awarded after death to individuals who were deemed great, but it later evolved to be granted for significant military achievements or other notable accomplishments. Female members of the Severan dynasty, for example, were granted the title 'Augusta' in recognition of their influential roles behind the male emperors who ruled early in the empire's history. Thus, after Nero, the last Roman emperor from the Julio-Claudian lineage, no other Roman could logically use the name 'Caesar' as a title. Instead, it was used only as a kingly title. 'Augustus' was added to their title either during their rule or posthumously.
Examples of the Title's Usage
The successor of Gaius Julius Caesar, his adopted nephew, could logically have been referred to as Octavian Caesar Augustus, following the naming convention 'firstname lastname honorific.' Later successors within the Nerva–Antonine dynasty might have been called Caesar Aurelius Augustus, which follows the structure 'Title Lastname Honorific.' Female members of the Severan dynasty might have been known as Julia Augusta firstname honorific or Julia Domna Augusta firstname lastname honorific.
Each title not only reflected the individual's status and achievements but also the evolving nature of the Roman Empire's political hierarchy. The title 'Augustus' symbolized the transition from a power-sharing republic to a more centralized and imperial rule, a transformation that was not only monumental for Rome but also for the world.