Bust Traian - Roman Emperor by Adoption
Just like his predecessor Nerva, Traian received the Roman imperial dignity by adoption. Traian was emperor of Rome from 98 to 117 AD, reached the largest territorial expansion of the Roman Empire and is considered one of the most important rulers of Rome. Traian was born and raised in Spain. During his reign he had the goodwill of the Senate and popularity among the people. He was known for his extensive building and welfare measures, the domestic strength of the Roman Empire and earning the favor of the people through gladiator fights. Among the people he was considered a caring emperor. He had the birth rate increased in order to be able to recruit enough soldiers for the Roman army.
Traian - an ideal ruler?
For a long time, Traian was considered by researchers to be an ideal ruler. From the 1960s onwards there was a critical examination of Traian as a person. Among his attributes:
- Emperor by adoption
- building up and expanding domestic and foreign political strength of the Roman Empire
- prudent, benevolent, caring emperor
- death after serious illness
- passed on kingship by adoption to his nephew Hadrian
Traian's communicative leadership style with all politically relevant groups such as the army, the Senate and the Roman people is undisputed. Based on a critical image of a ruler, Traian is associated with autocratic and sacrilegious qualities. This is based, among other things, on the concepts of rulership of that time / the ancient world.
Calm prudent charisma
The bust of Traian in bronze color radiates calmness, prudence and benevolence. His actions appear thoughtful and comprehensive. The slight downward head posture, for example, suggests closeness to the people.
The bust is about 14 cm high, with bronze patina and black polished marble base. The ruler's robe with cape is indicated.
Life at the time of Traian
It is undisputed that Traian promoted domestic social welfare, supported cultural buildings and events and was dependent on soldiers and functioning social systems due to the size of the empire. The different groups of people all have their own view of Traian.
Tips for the classroom
- Consider who expected what and why from the emperor.
- Write down your results and draw conclusions about our coexistence in society and state system.
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