ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the relationship between Julius Caesar Octavianus, that is, Emperor Augustus, and Livia. This was an unusually long-lasting relationship (which ended only with Augustus’ death in 14 ce), despite its lack of offspring and, therefore, in open contrast with the policies of demographic growth promoted by Augustus himself by way of his controversial legislation. With regard to this, the chapter considers the interpersonal relationship between the two spouses and also their inner relational dynamics, drawing on the scant (and ultimately contradictory) sources available to us. In particular, the chapter focuses on the stability of power ensured through this marriage, the legality of this marriage, the impact of the role model represented by their relationship, the definition of the feminine role in the new Augustan “court” as shown through this marriage, and the subsequent employment of such a relationship as a source of legitimation of new imperial powers. One of the most interesting aspects worth investigating is the fact that, in my opinion, within this “exceptional” and crucial relationship for the construction of Augustan power stands an element alien to the couple stricto sensu, that is to say, Livia’s previous maternity. This element is not only “incorporated” and made functional to the dynamics of the wedded couple, but it even guarantees the continuity of the imperial power itself. For Augustus’ successor is Tiberius, that is, the son born from Livia’s first marriage to Tiberius Claudius Nero, originally an opponent of Octavian.
