Politics in the Monuments of Pompey the Great and Julius Caesar

This book explores the diachronic development of the ideological content of Pompey and Caesars monuments in Rome, emphasizing the late Republican period as a precursor to imperial propaganda through architecture. It argues that monuments were fluid, adaptable entities, and that late Republican architecture should be considered an important source for understanding politics of this period.

Format: Hardback
Length: 210 pages
Publication date: 21 October 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This captivating book delves into the intricate and dynamic development of the ideological content of the monuments constructed in Rome by Pompey the Great and Julius Caesar during the late Republican period. It emphasizes the crucial role of this period as a precursor to the emergence of imperial propaganda through architecture.

In the final years of the Roman Republic, individuals like Pompey the Great and Julius Caesar harnessed the power of architecture to convey their political messages and ideologies. Pompey, known for his grandiose projects, promoted the construction of the first and largest stone theatre in Rome, a symbol of his power and influence. On the other hand, Caesar initiated comprehensive town-planning projects that aimed to transform Rome into a utopian city.

While the study of the politics expressed by these monuments and the influence of late Republican politics on the monuments themselves has received considerable attention, the study of the ideological meaning of late Republican monuments has been somewhat overlooked. This book aims to rectify this imbalance by exploring the ideological significance of these monuments and highlighting their fluid and adaptable nature, even within the lifespan of a single individual.

Accompanied by detailed maps and images, this volume provides a comprehensive analysis of the late Republican monuments. It demonstrates how these structures were not static entities but rather dynamic representations of changing political ideologies. The author, Professor Francesco Zampieri, employs a multidisciplinary approach, drawing on architectural, historical, and cultural studies to shed light on the complex interplay between politics and architecture in this period.

The book explores the various ways in which Pompey and Caesar used architecture to promote their ideologies and consolidate their power. It examines the symbolism and iconography employed in their monuments, as well as the architectural techniques and styles used to create them. The author also discusses the role of patronage in shaping the ideological content of these monuments, highlighting the influence of powerful individuals and groups on the design and construction of these structures.

In conclusion, Politics in the Monuments of Pompey the Great and Julius Caesar is a valuable contribution to the study of late Republican politics and Roman architecture. It offers a fresh perspective on these monuments, highlighting their ideological significance and their role in shaping the political landscape of the Roman Republic. The book will be of interest to anyone working on the politics and social world of the late Roman Republic, as well as on Roman architecture and patronage.

Weight: 590g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367521561