Octavian’s victory at the Battle of Actium, allowed him to solidify his power, thereby eliminate his last powerful enemy. Marcus Antonius had been a part of the Second Triumvirate and was also known for his expertise in leading the army. He was a great commander and having been a triumvir, he was entitled to a large sum of land and was the client of many Roman people (patricians). Octavian carefully played the puppet master, without presenting himself a dictator. The Romans hated the idea of a ‘one-man’ ruling system, rather one person acting as a counsellor. Although these things (positions) are the same, they are not portrayed so. In other words, Octavian carefully disillusioned the Roman people, having set himself as a counsellor and allowing for the Roman people to go by their business. Furthermore, Octavian was the invisible puppet master and was seen to be a good Roman leader. He achieved the favour of the …show more content…
“The consulship of Marcus Marcellus...offered me by the people and Senate...I did not accept at the time...I freed the entire people from the fear and danger they were in. The consulship...then offered me, I did not accept...thirdly...when the Senate and Roman people agreed I should be elected overseer of laws and morals...I refused to accept…” (Quote: Res Gestae). In this primary reference, Octavian declines to accept the offer of consulship over Rome, by the Senate and Roman people. Although after the third agreement, by the Senate and Roman people, having offered Octavian the position of administrator, which he agreed to. However, Octavian created this facade, which portrayed him to be a leader by the choice of the Roman people, not him. Thus, he gave the seat of consulship available to the Roman people, which they fought against. But to Octavian, having an extra counsellor, wouldn’t affect any of Octavian’s