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2022, Echoes of the Classical World
A lone Roman soldier lies wounded after a battle. He looks around and sees that his century has been decimated, yet the Dacians are on their heels. He cannot help but wonder why they would be retreating after a decisive victory. Suddenly, the sound of horses galloping begins to resonate behind him. He looks back to see a man– no, a deity decorated in high Roman regalia leading his troops forward. It is Emperor Trajan.
Born during the rule of Vespasian in 53 CE, Trajan was the second emperor of what is known as the period of the “Five Good Emperors.” He was crowned in 98 CE through the emperor Nerva’s adoption of him. His conquests saw the single largest territorial expansion in the Roman Empire’s history. Salvador Dali saw inspiration in his glory and encased it in bronze. His rendition of the famed emperor showcases him as a figure of elegance and valor.
Text by Alexander Ryland, Washburn student