Remus

Definition

Remus is one of the legendary twin brothers credited with the founding of Rome, alongside his brother Romulus. Their story emphasizes themes of conflict and brotherhood, culminating in Remus's tragic death at the hands of Romulus, which symbolizes the struggles for power and identity in early Roman history. The narrative of Remus not only serves as a mythological explanation for Rome's origins but also reflects deeper cultural values, including loyalty, rivalry, and destiny.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Remus was born to Rhea Silvia, a vestal virgin, and Mars, the god of war, highlighting his divine heritage.
2. The most famous part of the legend is the dispute between Romulus and Remus over the location of their new city, leading to Remus's death.
3. The phrase 'thus begins Rome' is often associated with Romulus's victory over Remus, marking a pivotal moment in Roman mythology.
4. Remus's death serves as a cautionary tale about ambition and the consequences of conflict between brothers.
5. The story of Remus has been interpreted as reflecting the broader themes of competition and duality in Roman culture.

Review Questions

• How does the relationship between Romulus and Remus illustrate the themes of conflict and rivalry in Roman mythology?
  • The relationship between Romulus and Remus is central to understanding the themes of conflict and rivalry in Roman mythology. Their fierce competition over where to establish their new city leads to a tragic outcome where Romulus kills Remus. This act not only signifies the personal rivalry between the brothers but also reflects broader societal values where power struggles often result in sacrifice. This story encapsulates how ambition can lead to both greatness and tragedy.
• Discuss how Remus's character contributes to our understanding of Roman values regarding family and loyalty.
  • Remus's character highlights essential Roman values such as loyalty and familial bonds while simultaneously showcasing the tragic consequences of betrayal. His bond with Romulus is initially rooted in brotherhood, yet their ultimate conflict reveals how loyalty can be tested by ambition and desire for power. The fate of Remus serves as a reminder that within family dynamics, especially among leaders, loyalty must be balanced with personal ambition, which can lead to destructive outcomes.
• Evaluate the significance of Remus’s story in relation to Aeneas’s journey and its impact on Roman identity.
  • Evaluating the significance of Remus’s story alongside Aeneas’s journey reveals layers of meaning regarding Roman identity. While Aeneas represents heroic qualities and divine destiny that precede Rome's foundation, Remus embodies the internal conflicts that arise once the city is established. The contrasting narratives create a complex picture of what it means to be Roman—combining valor with an awareness of familial strife. This duality is integral to understanding how Romans viewed their past, shaping their identity as a people forged through both heroic endeavors and tragic rivalries.

Related terms

Romulus: The other twin brother who, after a fierce rivalry with Remus, became the first king of Rome and established the city.

Lupa: The she-wolf in Roman mythology that nursed Romulus and Remus after they were abandoned, symbolizing nurturing and protection.

Aeneas: A Trojan hero whose journey to Italy is seen as a precursor to the founding of Rome, linking the city to epic tales of heroism and divine destiny.