German Title: "Imitatio Herculis". Herkules in Rom: der Gott der Ara Maxima und seine Funktion als Herrschervorbild, von archaischer Zeit bis zum 3.Jh. n.Chr.

English Title: "Imitatio Herculis". Hercules in Rome: the god of the Ara Maxima and his function as a role model for rulers, from Archaic times to the 3rd century. C.E.

Preview

PDF, Italian - main document Download (227MB) | Terms of use

Abstract

This study delves into the phenomenon of ‘imitatio Herculis' in ancient Rome, tracing its historical evolution from the Archaic Age to the era of Diocletian. Employing a comprehensive approach, the research draws upon literary, epigraphic, iconographic, numismatic, and artistic sources to elucidate conscious allusions to the Herculean paradigm among influential personalities and emperors. The work comprises four main chapters, each addressing a distinct temporal phase. The initial chapter explores the cult of Hercules in Rome, analysing the related sacred topography and the god's integration into Roman mythology. This section unveils significant places of worship and the transformation of the Greek hero into the Roman god of the Ara Maxima. The second chapter examines the earliest archaeological evidence of Hercules in Rome, specifically the terracotta group of Hercules and Minerva from the Sant'Omobono sanctuary. These artefacts, integrated into the decorative systems of public buildings, conveyed messages of power and luxury to the point of raising assumptions about the Roman kings' desire to imitate the god. Moving into the Republican period, the third chapter investigates the manipulative use of Hercules’ image in the self-portrayal of Roman generals and politicians, like Pompey, Mark Antony, and Caesar. The extensive final chapter explores the imperial period, demonstrating the increasing importance of Hercules in Roman political ideology. Emperors, starting with Trajan, engaged in genuine 'imitatio Herculis', with Commodus even adopting the title of 'Hercules Romanus'. Hercules became a symbol for emperors seeking universal legitimacy, exemplified by the Severan dynasty's association with the god as a patron deity. In conclusion, this dissertation argues that Hercules, as a 'self-made god', consistently stood out as a paramount role model for Roman rulers across centuries. Through meticulous analysis of diverse sources, the study substantiates the enduring allure of Hercules in shaping the identities of influential figures in Roman history.