Which scholar argues that Aeneas is a model for the Emperor Augustus and a template for what a good Roman is expected to be?

• A. Bob Cowan - Aeneas and Augustan values
• B. Fiachra Mac Gorain - Aeneas and Augustan values
• C. Richard Rutherford - Characterisation of Turnus
• D. Susanna Morton Braund - Characterisation of Aeneas

Answer: (A)

The main idea here is recognizing which scholar connects Aeneas directly to Augustan ideology, showing him as a model for the Emperor and for what a good Roman should be. Bob Cowan makes that link explicit: he argues that Aeneas embodies the values Augustus wants to project—pietas (dutiful piety), virtus (courage and virtue), leadership, and a mission to found Rome. In Cowan’s reading, the epic presents Aeneas as a prototype of Roman virtue who, through his fate and choices, mirrors the program of Augustan rule. By foregrounding Aeneas as the template for the good Roman and for imperial legitimacy, Cowan aligns the character with the political project of Augustus, making him the best choice for this question.

The other scholars cited focus on different aspects. Susanna Morton Braund concentrates on how Aeneas is portrayed as a character within the poem, exploring his personality and decisions rather than his role as a political model for Augustus. Richard Rutherford focuses on Turnus, not Aeneas, in terms of characterization. Fiachra Mac Gorain engages with Aeneas and Augustan values as well, but the prompt’s wording points to Cowan’s explicit treatment of Aeneas as the model for Augustus, which is why Cowan is the best fit.