The Trajan's Column

In Ancient Rome public art was of high importance and multi-functional amongst the society. The Trajan’s Column is an ideal example of one such admirable masterpiece; as well as one of the most valued to survive in such good condition from the ancient Empire. A variety of different aspects that make up this intricately designed tower will be explored and discussed in this essay with a focus on the propaganda depicted scenes that spiral around it.
Discussion
The Trojans Column is thirty eight meters high and made of multiple, forty ton marble columns stacked on top of one another. Most public art was in form of statues depicting important figures, monuments and beliefs. These would sometimes function as propaganda to encourage citizens to follow

On top of the column was a colossal bronze statue of Emperor Trajan himself which is since gone and a statue of St. Peter has been set in its place as ordered by Pope Sixtus V. Within the structure a spiral stairway was carefully carved to allow access to the top of it. (Campbell, 1998)

There are multiple depictions of events from during the time. The base of the structure is shaped like a wreath which was traditionally worn as a victory crown and a number of Dacian spoils and weaponry is also depicted at the base too. Regardless of where the figures were in the scenes, they were all carved to be the same size. The emperor was the only figure depicted larger than the others. (Campbell, 1998)

The Trajan’s column is said to possibly be propaganda. This would imply that the depictions are designed to create an idealistic view on the empire and Trajan as an emperor. However, archaeologists say that this monument may very well have a large amount of truth to it as Dacian excavations and studies have revealed artifacts and traces of civilization. (Curry,

The intricately designed scenes that spiral around the column are a good example of propaganda. Due to the fact that the Trajan’s column was built to glorify Trajan, the column was designed in a way that made views have to circumnavigate it to follow the story that the depicted scenes tell. This circling process has connotations of ideology, worship and mass glorification which are all results of effective propaganda.

Propaganda is also evident in the narrative of the spiraled design technique. There are about two thousand six hundred figures depicted from different angles around the column. This adds a chaotic idea and element of exuberance to the work. Amongst this chaos the emperor Trajan remains depicted from a horizontal perspective with an aura of controlled collectiveness and an authoritive, organized presence. This would inspire citizens to strive for such self-confidence and show others what a good leader Trajan was at the time of his