Question

One of the major developments during the Roman Empire was portraiture. Though the idea of creating a portrait of an actual person wasn’t new, it’s use grew. What is the MOST likely reason for this increase in the use of portraiture?

(1 point)
Responses

Death masks became more popular during this time.

Death masks became more popular during this time.

Portraits of leaders were new to this time period.

Portraits of leaders were new to this time period.

There was a greater emphasis on the individual in Roman society.

There was a greater emphasis on the individual in Roman society.

Portrait busts were easier to construct during this time period.

Answer 1

There was a greater emphasis on the individual in Roman society.

Explanation: Roman art increasingly focused on realistic, individualized portraits (verism) to honor ancestors, assert social status, and promote imperial authority, so portraiture became more common.