Romulus

Definition

Romulus is the legendary founder of Rome, who, according to myth, established the city in 753 BCE after a series of dramatic events. He is often depicted as the first king of Rome and is central to Roman mythology, symbolizing the city's origins and early governance. Romulus' story intertwines with themes of power, conflict, and divine favor, laying the groundwork for Rome's future political and social structures.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Romulus was said to have been raised by a she-wolf after being abandoned as an infant along with his brother Remus, highlighting themes of survival and destiny in his narrative.
2. According to legend, Romulus established the Roman Senate and created laws that would govern the new city, reflecting his role as a political leader.
3. The Palatine Hill is traditionally considered the site where Romulus founded Rome, which became a significant location in Roman history.
4. Romulus' death is shrouded in mystery; some stories claim he was taken up to heaven by the gods, marking him as a divine figure in Roman culture.
5. The story of Romulus has been interpreted in various ways throughout history, influencing Roman identity and serving as a model for future leaders.

Review Questions

• How does Romulus' story illustrate the themes of power and conflict in the early history of Rome?
  • Romulus' story reflects themes of power and conflict through his violent rivalry with his brother Remus over the founding of Rome. This act of fratricide not only establishes Romulus as a powerful figure but also symbolizes the struggles inherent in leadership and governance. The conflict highlights the idea that power often comes at a cost, setting a precedent for future political dynamics within Rome.
• What impact did Romulus have on the political structures that developed in ancient Rome?
  • Romulus significantly influenced the political structures of ancient Rome by establishing foundational institutions like the Senate and creating laws for governance. These early political systems set the stage for how Rome would evolve over time, emphasizing centralized authority and structured governance. The legacy of Romulus can be seen in later Roman political practices, where leaders sought to emulate his strong rule and foundational role in creating civic order.
• Evaluate how Romulus' mythological narrative has shaped Roman identity throughout history and its implications for leadership ideals.
  • Romulus' mythological narrative has profoundly shaped Roman identity by providing a heroic origin story that emphasizes strength, leadership, and divine favor. As an archetype for future leaders, Romulus’ character set high standards for personal valor and political acumen that later rulers aspired to embody. This narrative not only reinforced cultural values but also justified authority by linking it to divine sanction, thereby influencing how Romans perceived leadership throughout their history.

Related terms

Remus: The twin brother of Romulus, who was killed by Romulus during a dispute over the founding of Rome, representing themes of rivalry and conflict in the city’s origins.

The Seven Kings of Rome: A succession of kings who ruled Rome from its founding until the establishment of the Republic, with Romulus being the first and most significant among them.

Patricians:

The aristocratic class in ancient Rome, often linked to the early political structures established by Romulus and his successors.