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Nicolaus of Damascus' life of Augustus

Chapter 2: FOREWORD
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About This Book

The work presents a concise biographical account of a Roman leader, tracing his birth, upbringing, education, and early public honors, then following his interactions with a dominant predecessor and his gradual engagement in civil conflict. It describes his political ascent from youthful priestly office through military and diplomatic efforts, his consolidation of power across territories, and the administrative measures used to stabilize and govern diverse peoples. The narrative emphasizes both martial achievements and the later use of clemency, public benefaction, and institutional reform, while noting monuments, religious honors, and the author's aim to record facts for historical clarity.

FOREWORD

In preparing this translation of the Life of Augustus, the text of L. Dindorf, Historici Graeci Minores, Leipsic 1871, vol. 1, has been used as a basis. Suggestions of K. Müller, Fragmenta Historicorum Graecorum, Paris 1874, vol. 3, pp. 427 ff., and of N. Piccolos, Nicolas de Damas, Vie de César, Paris 1850, have been found of value. The last named work treats only of the section found in the ‘Codex Escorialensis’, namely chapters 16 to 31. In cases of variation among these three editors, the preferred reading has been duly indicated in the commentary; departures from their texts have also been noted. Works which have been of value in preparing the commentary have been fully cited therein.

To obviate the confusion between the elder and the younger Caesar, which exists through the excerpt, it has been found expedient to refer to the later Augustus as Octavius uniformly until his arrival in Italy from Apollonia, when he became acquainted with the contents of Caesar’s will, and thereafter as Octavian.

All the references to Appian are to his ‘Civil Wars’.

The writer here wishes to express his obligation to Professor T. Frank, under whose direction this work was undertaken, to Professor W. P. Mustard, who has kindly read the entire manuscript of the translation, and to Professors C. W. E. Miller and D. M. Robinson.