How did the events of the period affect Roman life?

As you know, one of the most important questions we have addressed in this class concerns the concept of Roman adaptability. For your final paper, I want you to assess this concept as it applies to the last years of the Republic and the first years of the Empire (the period from about 60 BC until 37 AD). You should address the following questions:

Why did the Roman state survive the death of the Republic? Was life better for Romans after Augustus established the principate?

Your response should be 8-10 pages in length. In preparing your paper, you can consider the following points:

  • How did the events of the period affect Roman life? (What happens to the Roman political system? How secure are people and their property? What happens to people living in Roman provinces?)
  • What did Augustus and his successors do to correct the damage done during the civil wars? (How are people compensated? What sorts of physical reconstruction is done?)
  • What measures did Augustus and his successors take to improve Roman life?

NB—Although this paper asks for your opinion, your answer must be supported by appropriately cited ancient evidence (a good guideline for a paper of this length is at least 4 different ancient sources cited).

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