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Why Did Augustus's Use Of Religion

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From the earliest days of Roman society, religion played a central role in every aspect of life. However, by the time Caesar was assassinated, somewhat of an erosion of religion’s importance had taken place and many desired a return to those lost religious practices. Augustus had similar aspirations and introduced the imperial cult to both foster the restoration of lost religious traditions by deifying him and others who would serve as emperor. In addition, the imperial cult was used to control the population and included measures to take against those who failed to participate in its practice.1
Augustus demonstrated great adeptness in fostering a culture that accepted the imperial cult ideology. This promoted the view of the emperor as a god to be worshipped and obeyed, capitalizing on the sacred place held by religion in society. In the eastern areas of the empire he engaged this view to foster patriotism and unity.2 He combined worship of himself with that of the goddess Roma, who was credited as responsible for Rome’s successful expansion. Augustus also expanded imperial cult worship into Italy, Rome and the west. This increased the sphere of worship paid to him as additional temples and altars were constructed in these …show more content…

Those in the upper class objected to worship of a man; therefore Augustus was more cautious in advancing cult philosophy. However, he capitalized on his relationship as son to Julius Caesar that provided him with the Augustus title; a title that carried with it connotations of divine lineage and favor. Augustus also divided the city of Rome into a series of wards and constructed shrines in each of them where worship of his guardian spirit, as well as small sculptures of himself could be worshipped.3 This subtle exposure of himself as a deity, even though he avoided making any direct claim of being a god, solidified the public view him as such and thus his commands needful to be

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