The age of Augustus, commonly dated to 30 BC--AD 14, was a pivotal period in world history. At a time of tremendous change in Rome, Italy, and throughout the Mediterranean world, many developments were underway when Augustus took charge and a recurring theme is the role that he played in influencing their direction. Written by distinguished specialists from the U.S. and Europe, this Companion's sixteen essays explore the multi-faceted character of the period and the interconnections among social, religious, political, literary, and artistic developments.