Romulus and Remus

Definition

Romulus and Remus are the legendary twin brothers who are credited with the founding of Rome, according to ancient Roman mythology. Their story intertwines themes of struggle, rivalry, and divine intervention, making it a foundational myth that reflects both historical and cultural aspects of early Rome.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. According to the myth, Romulus and Remus were born to Rhea Silvia, a vestal virgin, and Mars, the god of war, which gives them a divine heritage.
2. After being abandoned as infants on the banks of the Tiber River, they were saved by a she-wolf named Lupa who nursed them until they were discovered by a shepherd named Faustulus.
3. Romulus eventually killed Remus during a dispute over where to establish their new city, leading to the founding of Rome on April 21, 753 BCE.
4. Romulus became the first king of Rome and established many of its early institutions, including the Senate and military structure.
5. The story of Romulus and Remus reflects broader themes in Roman society such as valor, destiny, and the importance of civic duty.

Review Questions

• How do the legends of Romulus and Remus reflect the values and beliefs of early Roman society?
  • The legends of Romulus and Remus embody core values such as bravery, fate, and civic responsibility that were important to early Roman society. Their divine parentage underscores the belief that Rome had a destined greatness. Additionally, Romulus' actions in founding Rome and establishing its institutions illustrate ideals such as leadership and governance that were revered in Roman culture.
• Discuss the role of divine intervention in the myth of Romulus and Remus and how it shaped perceptions of leadership in ancient Rome.
  • Divine intervention plays a significant role in the myth of Romulus and Remus, as their lineage from Mars suggests that they were destined for greatness from birth. This connection to the gods reinforced the idea that leaders should have divine favor or bloodlines, shaping how Romans viewed authority and governance. The belief that Rome was founded through divine will contributed to its citizens' sense of duty towards their state.
• Evaluate the significance of the story of Romulus and Remus in understanding the cultural identity and historical narrative of ancient Rome.
  • The story of Romulus and Remus is central to understanding Roman cultural identity as it encapsulates themes of heroism, struggle, and destiny that resonated deeply with Romans. By framing their origins within a mythological context involving divine ancestry, Romans fostered a narrative that legitimized their city’s prominence and unity. This narrative served not only as an explanation for Rome's founding but also as a model for citizenship and values that were crucial for the development of Roman society.

Related terms

Lupa: The she-wolf that is said to have nursed Romulus and Remus after they were abandoned as infants, symbolizing the nurturing aspect of Rome's origins.

Mars: The Roman god of war, believed to be the father of Romulus and Remus, highlighting the divine lineage associated with their birth and their roles in Roman culture.

Foundation Myths: Stories that explain the origins of a city or culture, often involving divine or heroic figures, which serve to create a shared identity among its people.