Propaganda And Art In Syria In The Roman Era

Abstract

Propaganda formed an important common element between the various arts, because of its importance in human life throughout the ages, as it is included in every art, regardless of its different goals, means, and methods. Propaganda is one of the methods used by the public and private, rulers and others, in the past and present, to improve their image in front of their families and loved ones and in their small and large society, for several purposes and gains. Syria was one of the most important Roman provinces that was keen to use propaganda with its various arts, to be in many cases an excellent alternative to the direct presence of the ruler in front of his citizens, in all the countries under his control, especially since propaganda had a great role in forming a public opinion that suits its makers, and in changing or modifying This opinion is in proportion to the will of the rulers and those responsible for it, especially since they were seeking to give the public a sense of political, economic and recreational satisfaction and satisfaction, and the last “entertainment” element is one of the most important things to satisfy the masses. Therefore, the ruler relied on establishing his rule through his keenness on his permanent presence, real or symbolic, throughout the length and breadth of the country, relying on several possible means of propaganda, such as engraving his image on coins, which is the most widespread and influential propaganda method, which confirms the subordination of these country under his control. The ruler and his propaganda officials spared no effort in using art in all its forms and types to beautify and improve his image in front of his people. Sculpture and painting are among the most important types of arts used in propaganda. The use of art in propaganda was not limited to the ruler, but rather extended to those aspiring to occupy political positions, by portraying themselves and displaying their achievements in front of citizens.

Perhaps the topic of research, propaganda and art in Syria in the Roman era, is a mixture of several types of Syrian creations in the Roman era, from depictions (engraving) on coins to theaters and their performances, triumphal arches and their wonderful paintings, and the writings of Syrian writers, who excelled and even excelled in Describe their cities and publicize them. Keywords: propaganda, art, Syria, the Roman era.