'The Aeneid is a poem of Augustan propaganda.' How far do you agree with this statement? (Essay question)

In tackling this essay, I would recommend that the student think first of the main instances of Augustan propaganda within the Aeneid: Jupiter's speech in book 1 talking about the future of Rome, Anchises' speech and the procession of future Romans within the book of the dead, and the description of Aeneas' shield which depicts the glory and triumph of Augustus in book 8. These are the main explicit references to Augustus and the Golden Age of Rome within the Aeneid, and would probably form one point in the student's essay. If they have time they could also discuss the portrayal of Evander's humble kingdom on the future site of Rome which could be emphasising the greatness of Rome in its current state, although I would argue that it is more for the purpose of entertaining a Roman reader who would be familiar with all the landmarks described.For another point in their essay, I would then encourage the student to think about the less explicit propaganda within the poem, such as the portrayal of patriarchs like Aeneas and Anchises, who may be compared to Augustus, the 'pater patriae' or Father of Rome. Examples like the iconic image of Aeneas carrying his father and leading his son from the ruins of Troy could be used, and to bring in some Roman context, the student might mention that there was a statue of this in the forum Augustus built during his reign. The theme of pietas could be linked here, as this is one of Aeneas' main qualities and likewise one Augustus wanted to emphasise in himself. Finally, a counterpoint could be introduced into the essay, arguing that Virgil did not intend his Aeneid to be Augustan propaganda, such as Aeneas' furor or the negative portrayal of war in the second half of the poem, which might serve as a reminder to a Roman reader of Augustus' endless civil wars. They might make the point that the open and abrupt ending, with Aeneas submitting to his rage and killing Turnus, suggests that peace is unattainable and the Golden Age of Augustus only temporary. The student can place more or less focus on these counterpoints depending on whether they are agreeing or disagreeing with the statement.