way of knowing which god to sacrifice to should a miracle happen in the temple. Augustus During the reign of Augustus, the Senate voted that a golden shield be inscribed with Augustus' attributes and displayed in the Curia Iulia, including virtus, clementia, iustitia, and pietas. These political catchwords continued to be used as propaganda by later emperors. In literature The comic poet Plautus made use of the concept of virtus in his play Trinummus which concerned family virtus, honor and public office, and obligations to the state. He also offered commentary on the concept of virtus in Amphitruo (see above "Virtus and the Public"). Cicero said, "[only] virtus usually wards off a cruel and dishonorable death, and virtus is the badge of the Roman race and breed [sic]. Cling fast to [virtus], I beg you men of Rome, as a heritage that your ancestors bequeathed to you. All else is false and doubtful, ephemeral and changeful: only virtus stands firmly fixed, its roots run deep, it can never be shaken by any violence, never moved from its place." See also Virtue § Roman virtues – contains a list of Roman virtues Arete (moral virtue) Justice Prudence Courage Clementia Pietas Gravitas Notes References Citations Bibliography Latin political words and phrases Ancient Roman virtues