Statue of Octavian from Prima Porta
Adlocutio, the speech of a Roman commander to his soldiers, was one of the most important public acts in the army of ancient Rome. It was both a formal speech and a gesture of power that demonstrated the strength of the leader’s authority. The emperor, general, or other senior commander addressed the assembled army to motivate, inspire, or convey orders before battle.
Adlocutio representation itself was often mentioned in Roman art, especially on coins or reliefs that showed a leader speaking to his soldiers. Emperors such as Trajan and Augustus used these scenes to emphasize their authority and divine leadership.
From a rhetorical perspective, the adlocutio was extremely carefully crafted, filled with classic persuasion techniques and references to common belonging. Thanks to it, commanders were able to inspire loyalty, faith in victory and readiness to sacrifice themselves for the good of Rome.
- Southern Pat, The Roman Army: A Social and Institutional History, 2007
