How Do You Spell AUGUSTAN LITERATURE?

Pronunciation: [ˈɔːɡəstˌan lˈɪtɹɪt͡ʃə] (IPA)

Augustan literature is a term used to describe the literary works produced during the reign of Augustus Caesar in ancient Rome. The spelling of "Augustan" is pronounced as /ɔːˈɡʌstən/ in IPA phonetic transcription, where the stress is on the first syllable. The word is derived from the Latin name "Augustus," meaning revered or majestic. This type of literature is characterized by its emphasis on reason, restraint, and classical ideals that were popular during the time of the Roman Empire. Many well-known authors, such as Virgil and Ovid, contributed to Augustan literature.

Meaning and Definition
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AUGUSTAN LITERATURE Meaning and Definition

  1. Augustan literature refers to the body of literary works produced during the period of the reign of the Roman emperor Augustus, which lasted from 27 BCE to 14 CE. This era is considered as a golden age of Roman literature and is characterized by a revival of classical forms, emphasis on order, reason, and moderation.

    Augustan literature is marked by its imitation of ancient Greek and Roman literature, particularly the works of writers like Virgil, Horace, and Ovid. The poets and writers of this period sought to emulate the elegance and lyricism of their predecessors while also reflecting the cultural and political climate of their own time.

    The literature of the Augustan age is known for its polished style, careful craftsmanship, and rhetorical flourishes. It often explores themes of patriotism, duty, morality, and social harmony. Satire also played a significant role, with writers like Juvenal and Horace using humor and wit to critique societal vices and shortcomings.

    Some notable works of Augustan literature include Virgil's epic poem "The Aeneid," which recounts the founding of Rome and the hero Aeneas' journey, as well as the satires of Horace and Juvenal, which offer sharp social commentary. Another key figure of this era is the historian Livy, whose monumental work "Ab Urbe Condita" provides a comprehensive account of Rome's history.

    Overall, Augustan literature represents the pinnacle of Roman literary achievement, characterized by its adherence to classical ideals, sophisticated craftsmanship, and enduring influence on subsequent generations of writers.

Etymology of AUGUSTAN LITERATURE

The term "Augustan literature" originated from the reign of the Roman emperor Augustus (27 BC - 14 AD). Augustus was known for his patronage of the arts and literature and his encouragement of a cultural revival in Rome. The term "Augustan" came to represent a specific style and period of literature that arose during his reign and continued in the subsequent years. It is characterized by an emphasis on order, restraint, and decorum, aiming to evoke the literary style of the great Roman writers such as Virgil and Horace. The term "Augustan literature" is particularly associated with the Neoclassical movement in English literature of the 18th century when writers sought to emulate the Roman values and style.