Ep 4. Rome's First Emperor

During the fourth episode of season one of "Eight Days That Made Rome," viewers are taken on a journey into the life and reign of Rome's first emperor, Augustus. As the nephew and heir of Julius Caesar, Augustus rose to power following the assassination of his uncle and the subsequent civil war.

The episode begins with a reenactment of a pivotal moment in Augustus' early life. At the age of 19, Augustus was summoned to meet with Julius Caesar in Spain. It is believed that during this meeting, Caesar recognized Augustus' potential and named him as his heir. This decision would set Augustus on the path to becoming one of the most powerful and influential leaders in Roman history.

The episode then delves into Augustus' reign as emperor, which lasted from 27 BC to 14 AD. Augustus was known for his military conquests, political reforms, and cultural contributions. He expanded the Roman Empire to include most of the Mediterranean world and introduced a number of laws and policies that would shape Roman society for centuries to come.

One of the key features of Augustus' reign was his creation of a new government system. He abolished the Republic and established a monarchy, although he carefully maintained the appearance of Republican tradition. This enabled him to centralize power and exert greater control over the empire.

Another significant aspect of Augustus' reign was his promotion of Roman culture. He was a patron of the arts and encouraged the development of literature, poetry, and performing arts. Augustus himself was a talented writer and poet, and he used his literary works to promote his political and cultural ideals.

The episode also explores Augustus' personal life, including his complex relationships with his family members. He was married three times and had several children, but he also had numerous affairs and illegitimate children. One of his most famous relationships was with Cleopatra, the queen of Egypt. The episode touches on the political implications of their alliance and how it impacted Augustus' reign.

Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to stunning reenactments of historic events and artifacts that help to bring Augustus' world to life. From battles to banquets, viewers get a sense of the grandeur and complexity of ancient Roman society.

Overall, "Rome's First Emperor" is a fascinating exploration of one of the most important figures in Roman history. Augustus' reign marked a turning point in Roman society, and this episode offers valuable insights into his character, achievements, and legacy.