Final answer:
The metaphor of 'playing on the bones' as it relates to Augustus is not clearly defined but suggests navigating a fragile political landscape with irony found in his own physical fragility due to bone cancer. Augustus's powerful public image is contrasted by his private vulnerability, reinforcing the metaphor's layered irony.
Step-by-step explanation:
The metaphor of "playing on the bones" referenced in regards to Augustus is not explicitly outlined in the provided texts, which primarily focus on Augustus's accomplishments, his political agenda, his portrayal in art, and his impact on Roman culture. However, an interpretation of this metaphor could suggest Augustus playing a delicate, dangerous game, as if navigating a field of bones — a potentially risky venture where his political stability could be as fragile as bones themselves. The irony here may lie in Augustus's own experiences with fragility, such as the mortality of his chosen successors or the delicate balance of power he had to maintain. In the context of Augustus losing his leg to bone cancer, one could see an added layer of irony with his metaphorical and literal associations with bones, highlighting his personal vulnerabilities despite his powerful image. An understanding of Roman military regalia, senatorial politics, and legislation under Augustus can provide additional context to this metaphor. Augustus reportedly projected an image of robust military vigor, as seen in sculptures like the Augustus of Primaporta, where he is depicted in a contrapposto pose. This artistic representation contrasts sharply with the personal struggle he would have faced after losing his leg to cancer — a debilitation the public would likely not associate with the powerful, military-minded leader. Therefore, playing on the bones could serve as a metaphor for his reign's underlying fragilities. To contextualize this notion, we can look at the Pax Romana and the various political and moral reforms Augustus enforced to maintain his image and control, which were like walking on a tightrope, where one false step — or playing recklessly on a mass of bones — could have catastrophic consequences.