The spelling of the word "more augustan" is fairly straightforward, despite the length of the word. The first syllable is pronounced "aw", as in "law", and is followed by "GUH-stin", with emphasis on the second syllable. The final syllable is simply "in". This word refers to the style of art and literature that was popular during the reign of Emperor Augustus in ancient Rome. Adding "more" to the front of the word simply indicates a greater degree of this particular aesthetic.
The term "more Augustan" refers to an aesthetic or literary style that emulates or draws inspiration from the works and characteristics of the Augustan Age, a period in ancient Roman history that is associated with the Emperor Augustus. It is often used to describe art, literature, or any creative endeavor that exhibits qualities similar to those found in the works produced during this time.
The Augustan Age, usually regarded as a golden era of Roman literature, is characterized by its emphasis on order, reason, and moral values. It saw the flourishing of various poetic forms, such as epic, satire, and pastoral, and a renewed interest in classical themes and styles. The works of poets like Virgil, Horace, and Ovid exemplify the ethos of the Augustan Age, with their emphasis on harmony, elegance, and restraint.
When something is described as "more Augustan," it means that it embodies some of the key traits and qualities associated with this historical period. This might include elements like refined language, balanced structure, a focus on ethical and societal values, as well as a tendency towards satire or social commentary. The term can be applied to various art forms, such as literature, painting, architecture, or even music, whenever these endeavor to capture the spirit or style of the Augustan Age. Overall, "more Augustan" denotes a certain classical elegance, intellectual rigor, and cultural refinement.
The term "more Augustan" does not have a specific etymology since it is a combination of two words: "more" and "Augustan". Here's a breakdown of each word's etymology:
1. More: The word "more" comes from Old English "māra" or "māre", which means "greater" or "bigger". It is related to the Old High German "mēro" and Old Norse "meiri". The word has been used in English since the Middle English period, and it has remained relatively unchanged over time.
2. Augustan: The word "Augustan" is derived from the Latin "Augustus", which means "venerable", "majestic", or "imperial". It is primarily associated with the Roman Emperor Augustus (27 BC – 14 AD) and the period of his reign, known as the Augustan Age.