Remus

Definition

Remus is a legendary figure in Roman mythology, best known as one of the twin brothers who, along with Romulus, is credited with the founding of Rome. The story of Remus emphasizes themes of rivalry, conflict, and the foundations of Roman identity, particularly as it pertains to the city's legendary origins and its early struggles for power.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The story of Remus and Romulus includes a famous conflict where Remus was killed by Romulus over a dispute regarding the location of their new city.
2. Remus's death highlights themes of rivalry and betrayal, serving as a cautionary tale about the consequences of ambition and conflict.
3. The tale emphasizes the significance of Rome's foundation in 753 BCE, marking a pivotal moment in Roman history.
4. Remus's legacy is often overshadowed by Romulus, but he remains a crucial figure representing the duality of Rome's founding narrative.
5. The mythological events surrounding Remus and Romulus were celebrated in Roman culture through festivals and monuments, reinforcing their importance in shaping Roman identity.

Review Questions

• How does the story of Remus reflect themes that are central to Roman identity and values?
  • The story of Remus reflects core themes of rivalry, ambition, and conflict that are central to Roman identity. The tragic fate of Remus at the hands of his brother Romulus illustrates the dangers inherent in ambition and competition for power. This narrative not only serves as an origin story for Rome but also encapsulates the societal values that would characterize Roman culture, including strength, loyalty, and the sometimes harsh realities of leadership.
• Discuss the significance of Remus's relationship with Romulus in terms of their roles in Rome's founding myth.
  • The relationship between Remus and Romulus is significant because it highlights both collaboration and conflict in the foundation of Rome. While they represent unity as twins who were meant to create a great city together, their eventual rivalry leads to Remus's death, illustrating that even within familial bonds, ambition can lead to tragic outcomes. This duality underscores not only their individual roles but also the complex nature of leadership and power dynamics in early Rome.
• Evaluate how Remus's story contributes to our understanding of Roman mythology and its impact on later cultural narratives.
  • Remus's story contributes significantly to our understanding of Roman mythology by providing insight into how myths served to communicate moral lessons about ambition, conflict, and identity. The foundational narrative of Romulus and Remus influenced not just Roman culture but also later Western literary and cultural traditions. By analyzing this myth, we can see how it shaped concepts of leadership and governance in subsequent societies, illustrating how foundational myths carry enduring relevance across time.

Related terms

Romulus:

The brother of Remus, Romulus is considered the founder of Rome and the first king, famously credited with establishing many of the city's key institutions.

Founding Myths: These are traditional stories that explain the origins of a culture or civilization, often involving supernatural elements or legendary figures like Remus and Romulus.

Lupa: The she-wolf in Roman mythology that is said to have nursed Remus and Romulus after they were abandoned at birth, symbolizing the bond between nature and the foundation of Rome.