Teatro, rappresentazione, mondo. Al tempo di Augusto

This article aims to collect the most significant data and evidence on the theatre in the Augustan Age, also considered in its multiple historical-social and ideological aspects. It begins with the theatre as a place, both in terms of its construction and restoration and the importance of performances as a collective social rite shared by the citizens of Rome. The various genres of dramatic representation are then analysed: comedy and fabula Atellana; tragedy; pantomime. Finally, the “question of Latin theatre” (A. La Penna) is discussed concisely in an attempt to grasp the specificity of the relationship between theatre – especially tragedy – and Augustus’ political and cultural programme.