The Role of the Lares in the ‘Augustan’ Theology of Tibullus

Abstract

In his poetic collection, Tibullus often refers to the ancient household gods Lares. In this paper we will show that the prominent position Tibullus reserves for the Lares in his elegies proves that the poet agrees with Augustus’ programme of political and moral renovatio. Also we will point out how traditional worship in Augustan Rome is revived in order to serve both the religious and the political objectives of the Princeps.