What were the major themes of the period known as the Pax Romana?

The Pax Romana is literally translated as the Roman Peace, so it would stand to reason that peace was a major themeduring the time period. Peace was celebrated in art and propaganda during the Pax Romana and elaborate ceremonies were commissioned by the Senate to celebrate it. Defensive walls were constructed during this period on the frontiers of the Roman Empire to prevent border incursions and warfare. Peace was viewed as something to be...

The Pax Romana is literally translated as the Roman Peace, so it would stand to reason that peace was a major theme during the time period. Peace was celebrated in art and propaganda during the Pax Romana and elaborate ceremonies were commissioned by the Senate to celebrate it. Defensive walls were constructed during this period on the frontiers of the Roman Empire to prevent border incursions and warfare. Peace was viewed as something to be celebrated and not as a weakness.

Another important theme was the centralization of power. The emperor was afforded unprecedented political power during the Pax Romana. An attempt was made to deify the emperors which would further solidify their political positions. If the emperor were viewed as divine by his subjects, his decisions would not be questioned and insurrection would become less likely.

Infrastructure development was another theme during the Pax Romana. Thousands of miles of the best roads in the world were built during this era. The roads connected a vast trade and communication network that placed Rome at the center of the web. The Romans also built public buildings that have survived to the modern era. The Colosseum and Pantheon are two examples of superior construction during this period. The production of aqueducts during the Pax Romana represented a significant advancement in engineering and construction and how the public good could be served by peace.