Objective

By the end of this lesson, the student will be able to analyze and compare the themes of nationalism and struggle in Virgil's "Aeneid" and Augustan public art. They will understand how these themes reflect the values of Roman society and how they are presented through different artistic mediums.

Materials and Prep

• Notebook and pen for notes
• Access to excerpts from "Aeneid" (specifically Books 1, 6, and 8)
• Images of Augustan public art (e.g., Ara Pacis, statues of Augustus)
• Art supplies for creative activities (colored pencils, markers, paper)
• Background knowledge on Roman history and the significance of Augustus

Activities

• Art Comparison:

  The student will examine images of Augustan public art and excerpts from the "Aeneid." They will create a Venn diagram to compare the themes of nationalism and struggle in both mediums, noting similarities and differences.

• Creative Writing:

  The student will write a short narrative from the perspective of Aeneas, focusing on his struggles and the challenges he faces. This narrative should incorporate elements of pathos and hyperbole to reflect the epic style.

• Role-Playing Debate:

  The student will participate in a debate role-playing as either Virgil or an Augustan artist. They will argue their perspective on the importance of depicting struggle versus celebrating prosperity in art and literature.

Talking Points

• "Virgil's 'Aeneid' isn't just a story; it's a way to understand the Roman identity and its struggles."
• "Augustan art often shows peace and prosperity, but Virgil emphasizes the effort it took to get there."
• "The 'Aeneid' is filled with conflict—both external battles and internal struggles. Why do you think that is?"
• "Aeneas is a hero, but he faces many challenges. What do these challenges tell us about the Roman values of duty and perseverance?"
• "In the epic, the journey is just as important as the destination. How does this reflect real-life struggles?"
• "What do you think Virgil wanted his audience to feel when they read about Aeneas's hardships?"
• "The way Virgil writes can be dramatic and intense, almost like a movie. How does that style affect your understanding of the story?"
• "Think about the images of Augustus. How do they make you feel about his reign compared to Virgil's portrayal of struggle?"
• "Why do you think Virgil chose to focus on the past instead of the present in his work?"
• "Consider the role of fate and the gods in Aeneas's journey. How does this influence the idea of struggle?"
• "Virgil's work can be seen as propaganda. What does that mean, and how does it affect our interpretation today?"
• "How do the themes of chaos and order in the 'Aeneid' relate to modern society?"
• "What lessons can we learn from Aeneas's journey that are still relevant today?"
• "Discuss the importance of legacy in both the 'Aeneid' and Augustan art. Why is this important for understanding history?"
• "Finally, how do you think the struggles depicted in the 'Aeneid' resonate with personal challenges you face?"