Chapter 2, Augustus Summary and Analysis

Augustus is the son of Gaius Octavius who Caesar adopts in his will. He is born on September 23, 63 BC. He comes of age at sixteen and is given military decorations when Caesar celebrates his Africa triumph. When Caesar goes to fight Pompey's sons in Spain, Augustus follows him with low security on enemy roads even though he is overcoming a serious illness. Caesar is really impressed with this and recognizes Augustus' strong and energetic character. He fights five civil wars and the main goal of every battle and military campaign is to avenge Caesar and keep his decrees in full force. He even makes plans to murder Antony. The senate ends up outlawing Antony after a few tenuous battles. Antony flees to Alexandria to be with Cleopatra but Augustus finds him and forces him to commit suicide. He then...