Introduction

When teaching students about Ancient Rome, focusing on the lives of Julius Caesar and Augustus is an excellent way to provide an in-depth understanding of Roman history. These two figures greatly influenced the development of Roman civilization and continue to have a significant impact on modern-day society. In this article, we explore effective ways to teach students about Julius Caesar and Augustus through engaging activities and discussions.

Background Information: Julius Caesar

Julius Caesar was a Roman military and political leader who played a critical role in the transformation of the Roman Republic into the Roman Empire. Born in 100 BCE, he gained power through his military successes, most notably in his campaign in Gaul. His return to Rome in 49 BCE sparked a civil war later known as the Great Roman Civil War, where he eventually emerged victorious. Despite his triumphs, he faced opposition from senators who took his life in 44 BCE.

Background Information: Augustus

Augustus (63 BCE – 14 CE) was born Gaius Octavius but later changed his name when he assumed control of the Roman Empire. He was Julius Caesar’s grand-nephew, adopted son, and heir to his political position. After Caesar’s assassination, Augustus competed for power against other influential Romans such as Mark Antony. Eventually, he emerged as the unrivaled leader and founded the Roman Empire with himself as its first emperor.

Teaching Strategies

1. Introduce students to primary sources – To provide an authentic understanding of these historical figures, introduce students to primary sources like Julius Caesar’s “Commentaries on the Gallic War” or biographies such as “Augustus: The Life of Rome’s First Emperor” by Anthony Everitt.

2. Create a timeline – Have your students create a timeline project that maps out the major events in the lives of Julius Caesar and Augustus. This activity will help them visualize the sequence of events and understand their significance in Roman history.

3. Engage in role-play – Encourage students to engage in role-playing activities where they assume the roles of Julius Caesar, Augustus, or other prominent Roman figures. This will facilitate a deeper understanding of the motives, decisions, and perspectives of these individuals during their historical era.

4. Study art and architecture – Analyze classical Roman art and architecture to uncover insights into the lives of Julius Caesar and Augustus. Examining statues, coins, and monuments dedicated to these leaders can provide a wealth of knowledge about their image and impact on Roman society.

5. Debate historical perspectives – Organize debates in which your students argue for or against certain actions taken by Julius Caesar or Augustus in a historical context. This allows for deeper reflection on the ethical implications of their decisions and policies.

Conclusion

Teaching students about Julius Caesar and Augustus offers an opportunity to delve into a fascinating world at the crossroads between the Roman Republic and the Roman Empire. By engaging in purposeful activities that ignite students’ curiosity, educators can successfully instill an appreciation for these influential figures in ancient history.