CLA233H1 Lecture Notes - Lecture 16: Princeps Senatus, Roman Magistrate, Princeps
Document Summary
Imperium proconsulae maius (greater than usual authority of a proconsul) Roman emperor wasn"t head of state, the heads of state were the consuls. Reducing power of emperor, rome starts as monarchy but then just becomes figurehead type (like england) Consuls remain heads of state, elected per year. Emperor in practice recommends people for consulate, emperor is just a super magistrate. Emperor comes from imperator (guy who gives orders, general in chief) Princeps senatus was a purely honorary title (oldest senator). Princeps is title of honor, it means that the senate honors the emperor. What you called the emperor was a standing of your dignitas, princeps as senator, . where you called him what gave iinfo about yor own status. Emperor is constantly reminded of the legal and social extents of his power, he must have support of senate and asristocrats and military. Romans granted emperor the tribunia potestas, they like to believe they are remaining true to the ancstors.
