The eagle The eagle,or acquila, was mounted on the top of the Roman Legions’ standard. Above the eagle, A gold bar bore the message SPQR (Senatus Populus Romanus), “The Senate and People of Rome”
While the primary function of the eagle was symbolic (representing not only the legion, but the Roman empire as well). It served as a beacon for troops in battle, helping to orient them. In the chaos of battle, troops would often look for the standard to orient their actions, often following commands to not move further than a few steps from it. The standard would also be planted when the legions set up camp. It had a pointed metal end to accommodate the firm planting of it when wanted.
A replica of the head of the reigning emperor was often …show more content…
The Denarius, shown above, was minted by Mark Antony to pay his legions. Thus, the eagle was used not only as a guide for the legions, but served as a reminder in everyday currency of the power of Rome.
Why was the eagle used as symbol? It has a sleek beauty which is belied by its powerful beak and talons which can easily tear apart prey. The eagle has amazing vision and can swoop down on prey with great accuracy and speed. It personified the strength, cruelty and all encompassing watchfulness and power of the Roman Empire. I was carried at the front of the legions as a warning to those watching on the sidelines. It was prominent in currency as a constant reminder to all using the coins of the power of the empire.
The eagle has been used by many nations as their symbol, including Nazi Germany. The black, heraldic eagle is part of modern day Germany’s flag. The Bald Eagle is the national bird of the United States and is a symbol on the United States Seal and on its currency.
The Eagle is also prominent as a symbol in the bible:
Isa. 40:31 but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, They will walk and not be faint.
While the primary function of the eagle was symbolic (representing not only the legion, but the Roman empire as well). It served as a beacon for troops in battle, helping to orient them. In the chaos of battle, troops would often look for the standard to orient their actions, often following commands to not move further than a few steps from it. The standard would also be planted when the legions set up camp. It had a pointed metal end to accommodate the firm planting of it when wanted.
A replica of the head of the reigning emperor was often …show more content…
The Denarius, shown above, was minted by Mark Antony to pay his legions. Thus, the eagle was used not only as a guide for the legions, but served as a reminder in everyday currency of the power of Rome.
Why was the eagle used as symbol? It has a sleek beauty which is belied by its powerful beak and talons which can easily tear apart prey. The eagle has amazing vision and can swoop down on prey with great accuracy and speed. It personified the strength, cruelty and all encompassing watchfulness and power of the Roman Empire. I was carried at the front of the legions as a warning to those watching on the sidelines. It was prominent in currency as a constant reminder to all using the coins of the power of the empire.
The eagle has been used by many nations as their symbol, including Nazi Germany. The black, heraldic eagle is part of modern day Germany’s flag. The Bald Eagle is the national bird of the United States and is a symbol on the United States Seal and on its currency.
The Eagle is also prominent as a symbol in the bible:
Isa. 40:31 but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, They will walk and not be faint.