This collection of scholarly essays investigates the multifaceted political, cultural, and personal identity of Caesar Augustus to determine how he constructed his image as the first Roman emperor. The editors, Erich Segal and Fergus Millar, curate contributions from an international panel of experts who analyze the intersection of imperial propaganda, historical record, and contemporary literary reception. By examining both the internal mechanics of his rule and the external perceptions held by provincial subjects, the volume provides a comprehensive framework for understanding the transition from Republic to Principate.

Experts recognize this volume as a significant contribution to the study of Augustan history, noting its utility for both students and seasoned classicists. Readers frequently highlight the academic rigor of the essays and the clarity with which the contributors navigate complex historical debates.