Romulus and Remus

Definition

Romulus and Remus are the legendary twin brothers in Roman mythology credited with founding the city of Rome. According to the myth, they were the sons of the god Mars and the vestal virgin Rhea Silvia, and their story symbolizes themes of divine destiny and the struggles of power. Their narrative is essential to understanding the cultural identity of ancient Rome and its pantheon, highlighting the significance of mythology in explaining historical events and the divine sanctioning of political authority.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Romulus killed Remus after a dispute over where to found their new city, thus establishing Romulus as the first king of Rome.
2. The story of Romulus and Remus includes their miraculous survival after being abandoned at birth and nursed by a she-wolf, which became a symbol of Rome's strength and resilience.
3. Romulus is credited with establishing many of the early institutions of Roman society, including the Senate and the Roman legions.
4. The tale reflects important values in Roman culture, such as loyalty, bravery, and the belief in one's fated role in history.
5. The myth of Romulus and Remus served not only to explain Rome's origins but also to legitimize its power by linking it to divine ancestry.

Review Questions

• What role do Romulus and Remus play in shaping Roman cultural identity through their founding myth?
  • Romulus and Remus are central figures in Roman mythology, embodying themes that shape Roman cultural identity such as destiny, conflict, and unity. Their story reflects the values Romans held dear, such as bravery and loyalty, while also linking the origins of Rome to divine sanction through their lineage from Mars. By understanding their myth, one gains insight into how Romans viewed their city's foundation as not just a historical event but a significant act ordained by the gods.
• Analyze how the myth of Romulus and Remus reflects broader themes within Roman mythology and society.
  • The myth of Romulus and Remus encapsulates broader themes prevalent in Roman mythology such as divine intervention, conflict resolution, and political legitimacy. The narrative emphasizes how personal ambition can lead to conflict—as seen in Romulus's fratricide—and highlights the idea that Rome's greatness was sanctioned by its divine origins. This mythology helped to unify Romans under shared beliefs about their past while reinforcing the notion that their civilization had a special relationship with the divine.
• Evaluate the impact of Romulus and Remus on later interpretations of leadership and authority in Roman history.
  • The story of Romulus and Remus significantly impacted later interpretations of leadership in Rome by establishing a narrative that equated successful rulers with divine favor. Their tale promoted the idea that legitimate authority stemmed from both familial lineage and valorous deeds, influencing how leaders were perceived throughout Roman history. This connection between mythological foundations and political power can be seen echoed in how emperors would often associate themselves with Romulus to legitimize their rule, thereby intertwining mythology with governance.

Related terms

Mars:

The Roman god of war, who is also considered the father of Romulus and Remus, symbolizing military might and protection.

Vestal Virgins:

A group of priestesses in ancient Rome dedicated to the goddess Vesta, responsible for maintaining the sacred fire and serving as guardians of Rome's spiritual well-being.

Rome's Foundation Myth: The traditional story that explains how Rome was founded, emphasizing themes like destiny, divine intervention, and the origins of Roman culture.