News, Rumour, and the Political Culture of the Roman Imperial Monarchy in the 'Roman History'

    Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapterpeer-review

    Abstract

    In 53.19, Dio discusses the impact that the transition of Romes system of government from a Republic to a monarchy under Augustus had for the flow of accurate political news and information. This programmatic section of the Roman History has often been discussed for the insight it provides into Dios historical methodology. This chapter takes a complementary perspective on 53.19, examining Dios view that the new monarchical government led to the rise of rumour, and the way that this theme plays out in the Roman History at large. It shows that the presence of rumour in Dios narrative increases the closer one comes to Octavian assuming sole power, especially during the triumviral period, which is marked by attempts to control channels of news. Dios emphasis on rumour in the imperial books, it is argued, reflects the uncertainty engendered by the concentration of political power in the hands of one man, whose real thoughts and intentions always remained inscrutable.
    Original languageEnglish
    Title of host publicationEmperors and Political Culture in Cassius Dio's Roman History
    EditorsCaillan Davenport, Christopher Mallan
    Place of PublicationCambridge
    PublisherCambridge University Press
    Pages52 - 73
    ISBN (Print)9781108923019
    DOIs
    Publication statusPublished - 2021

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