13.1 The myth of Aeneas and Rome's founding
4 min read•august 6, 2024
The myth of links 's fall to Rome's birth. It follows Aeneas, a Trojan hero, as he escapes his burning city and journeys to Italy. This tale connects Greek and Roman myths, giving Rome a legendary founder.
Aeneas' story blends history and legend, tying Rome to ancient Troy. It highlights Roman values like duty and , setting the stage for Rome's greatness. This myth became central to Roman identity and imperial ambitions.
Aeneas and the Fall of Troy
Aeneas' role in the Trojan War
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- Aeneas, a Trojan hero and demigod, fought alongside Hector in the Trojan War against the Greeks
- Son of Anchises, a mortal, and , the goddess of love and beauty
- Known for his piety, devotion to family, and sense of duty to the gods and his people
- Fought valiantly in the Trojan War but ultimately could not prevent (city in modern-day Turkey)
Escape from Troy with family
- During the fall of Troy, Aeneas escaped the burning city carrying his elderly father Anchises on his back
- Also led his young son (also known as ) and other Trojan survivors out of the city
- Aeneas' wife was lost during the escape, and her ghost appeared to him, prophesying his future journey to Italy
Aeneas in Carthage
Arrival in Carthage and relationship with Dido
- After the fall of Troy, Aeneas and his followers sailed across the Mediterranean, eventually landing in (modern-day Tunisia)
- Queen , founder and ruler of Carthage, welcomed the Trojans and offered them refuge
- Aeneas and Dido fell in love, and their relationship delayed Aeneas' journey to Italy, his destined homeland
Departure from Carthage and Dido's tragic fate
- , king of the gods, sent Mercury to remind Aeneas of his duty to found a new city in Italy
- Aeneas, torn between his love for Dido and his sense of duty, ultimately decided to leave Carthage and continue his journey
- Dido, heartbroken and angry, committed suicide by stabbing herself on a funeral pyre, cursing Aeneas and his descendants (setting the stage for future conflict between Rome and Carthage)
Aeneas in Italy
Arrival in Latium and alliance with King Latinus
- Aeneas and his followers landed in , a region in central Italy, where they were welcomed by King
- Latinus offered his daughter in marriage to Aeneas, seeing the union as fulfilling a prophecy about a foreign prince who would marry his daughter and bring great prosperity to his kingdom
Conflict with Turnus and the foundation of Lavinium
- , king of the Rutuli and Lavinia's former suitor, opposed the marriage and led a war against Aeneas and the Trojans
- After a series of battles, Aeneas defeated Turnus in single combat, securing his place in Latium
- Aeneas married Lavinia and founded the city of , named after his new wife, establishing the foundation for the future Roman civilization
Romulus and Remus, descendants of Aeneas
- and , twin brothers and direct descendants of Aeneas, were born generations after Aeneas' death
- The brothers were abandoned as infants but were saved by a she-wolf who suckled them until a shepherd found and raised them
- As adults, Romulus and Remus founded the city of Rome on the banks of the Tiber River (753 BCE, according to legend)
- Romulus killed Remus in a dispute over the city's boundaries and became the first king of Rome, establishing the Roman Kingdom
Historical Context
The Aeneid as a political and cultural epic of the Augustan Age
- Virgil wrote during the reign of , the first Roman emperor (27 BCE - 14 CE)
- Augustus, formerly known as Octavian, emerged as the sole ruler of Rome after defeating Mark Antony and Cleopatra in the Final War of the Roman Republic
- The Aeneid serves as a political and cultural epic that legitimizes Augustus' rule and the Roman Empire by connecting Rome's origins to the heroic figure of Aeneas and the divine will of the gods
- The epic also celebrates traditional Roman virtues such as piety, duty, and loyalty, which Augustus sought to promote as part of his moral reforms and cultural renewal of Rome
Augustus' patronage of Virgil and the arts
- Augustus was a patron of the arts and literature, supporting poets like Virgil, Horace, and Ovid
- Virgil received financial support from Augustus and his close friend and advisor, Maecenas, allowing him to focus on writing the Aeneid
- The Aeneid, along with other works of literature and art from the Augustan Age, helped to establish a shared cultural identity and promote the values and ideals of the Roman Empire
Key Terms to Review (32)
Aeneas: Aeneas is a Trojan hero and the central character of Virgil's 'Aeneid', representing the ideal Roman values of duty and piety. He is significant not only for his role in the narrative of the Trojan War but also as the mythological founder of Rome, embodying themes of sacrifice, destiny, and divine influence throughout his journey.
Ascanius: Ascanius is the son of Aeneas and Creusa, and he plays a pivotal role in the myth surrounding Aeneas's journey to found Rome. His character symbolizes the future of the Roman people and is often associated with themes of legacy and destiny as Aeneas navigates challenges to fulfill his fate. Ascanius's significance extends beyond personal narrative; he embodies the hopes for Rome's continuation through his lineage.
Augustus: Augustus refers to the title given to Gaius Octavius, the first Roman emperor, who ruled from 27 BCE until his death in 14 CE. This title, meaning 'the revered one,' marked the beginning of the Roman Empire and established a period of relative peace known as the Pax Romana. Augustus played a crucial role in reshaping Rome's political landscape and was closely associated with the cultural revival during this time, influencing figures like Virgil in their literary works.
Carthage: Carthage was a powerful ancient city-state located in North Africa, known for its maritime prowess and as a major rival to Rome. Founded by Phoenician settlers, Carthage played a crucial role in the Mediterranean trade and conflicts, especially during the Punic Wars, which significantly impacted the history and mythology surrounding Rome's founding and Aeneas's journey.
Creusa: Creusa is a significant character in Virgil's 'Aeneid', known as the wife of Aeneas and a symbol of the past that Aeneas must leave behind. Her presence in the narrative highlights themes of love, loss, and destiny as Aeneas embarks on his journey to found Rome, emphasizing the personal sacrifices involved in his quest.
Dido: Dido is the queen of Carthage and a central figure in Virgil's Aeneid, representing themes of love, betrayal, and sacrifice. Her tragic relationship with Aeneas not only highlights her strong character and leadership but also serves as a pivotal moment in the narrative, showcasing the tension between personal desires and the obligations of fate.
Epic simile: An epic simile is an extended comparison that typically relates a heroic or extraordinary event to everyday experiences or objects, often elaborating on details and using vivid imagery. This technique enhances the narrative by creating a more profound connection between the grand events of the epic and the audience's understanding.
Fate: Fate refers to the predetermined course of events that is believed to govern human lives and destinies, often depicted as an unchangeable force in epic literature. In the context of ancient Greek and Roman epics, fate intertwines with concepts of divine influence, personal choice, and heroic deeds, shaping the characters' journeys and the overarching narratives.
Founding myths: Founding myths are traditional narratives that explain the origins and identity of a culture, people, or civilization. These stories often convey essential values and beliefs, serving to unite members of a community by creating a shared sense of history and purpose.
Heroism: Heroism refers to the qualities and actions of a hero, characterized by bravery, self-sacrifice, and noble deeds in the face of adversity. In epic poetry, heroism is central to the narrative and often serves as a reflection of cultural values and ideals.
In medias res: In medias res is a Latin phrase meaning 'in the midst of things,' and it refers to a narrative technique where a story begins in the middle of the action rather than at the beginning. This approach engages the audience right away, allowing for immediate immersion into the plot and characters, which is a characteristic feature of epic poetry and influences its structure and storytelling style.
Iulus: Iulus, also known as Ascanius, is a key figure in Roman mythology and the son of Aeneas, the legendary hero of the Aeneid. As a symbol of the future of Rome, Iulus represents the continuity of Aeneas's lineage and the divine origin of Rome itself, as his name is linked to the Julii family, one of the most prominent in Roman history. His role in the mythological narrative emphasizes the themes of destiny and heritage critical to Rome's founding.
Jupiter: Jupiter is the king of the gods in Roman mythology, representing authority, law, and justice. His influence is deeply intertwined with the themes of fate, divine intervention, and the establishment of Rome's imperial identity, reflecting his role as a protector of the state and its values.
Latinus: Latinus is a significant figure in Roman mythology, known as the king of the Latins and an ancestor of the Romans. He plays a crucial role in the myth of Aeneas, as he offers Aeneas and his Trojans hospitality and ultimately facilitates the union between the Trojans and the local people, which is foundational to Rome's origins. This connection not only ties Latinus to Aeneas but also symbolizes the blending of different cultures that is essential to the narrative of Rome's founding.
Latium: Latium is a historical region in ancient Italy, recognized as the homeland of the Latins and the birthplace of Rome. This area played a crucial role in the narratives surrounding early Roman history, particularly emphasizing themes of personal sacrifice and duty for the greater good, as embodied by its early inhabitants and legendary figures.
Lavinia: Lavinia is a key character in Virgil's 'Aeneid,' known as the daughter of King Latinus and the destined bride of Aeneas. Her significance lies in her role as a symbol of the fated union between the Trojans and the Italians, marking the beginning of Roman lineage. Through her, themes of destiny, conflict, and cultural integration emerge, showcasing the foundational myths of Rome.
Lavinium: Lavinium is an ancient city located in the region of Latium, known as a significant site in Roman mythology and history, particularly associated with the legend of Aeneas. Founded by Aeneas after his arrival in Italy, Lavinium served as a pivotal settlement that symbolized the connection between the Trojan heritage and the Roman identity, playing a crucial role in the mythological narrative surrounding the founding of Rome.
Mos maiorum: Mos maiorum refers to the traditional customs, values, and moral principles that shaped Roman society and governance. It emphasizes the importance of adhering to the ways of the ancestors and serves as a guiding principle for social behavior, civic duty, and familial loyalty in ancient Rome. This concept is deeply intertwined with the themes of piety and the foundational myths surrounding the origins of Rome, highlighting the expected conduct of individuals in service to their community and heritage.
Neptune: Neptune is the Roman god of the sea, often associated with horses and known for his powerful and temperamental nature. In literature, especially in the Aeneid, Neptune plays a crucial role in influencing the journey of Aeneas, showcasing how divine forces interact with human destinies. His presence highlights the theme of divine intervention and the gods' involvement in the lives of mortals.
Piety: Piety refers to the devotion and reverence one shows towards the gods, which is a central theme in epic poetry, particularly in the works of Homer and Virgil. This concept emphasizes the importance of maintaining a respectful relationship with divine forces, and it often dictates the behavior and fate of mortal characters, influencing their actions and the outcomes of their journeys.
Remus: Remus is a legendary figure in Roman mythology known as one of the twin brothers who, along with Romulus, is credited with the founding of Rome. The story of Remus highlights themes of brotherhood, conflict, and the tumultuous beginnings of the city that would grow into a powerful empire.
Roman nationalism: Roman nationalism is the sense of pride and identity that arose in ancient Rome, emphasizing the unique cultural, political, and historical characteristics of the Roman people. This idea is closely tied to the myths and legends that helped establish Rome's legitimacy and superiority, particularly through narratives like the story of Aeneas, which illustrates the connection between Rome’s founders and divine favor.
Romulus: Romulus is a legendary figure in Roman mythology, credited as the founder of Rome and its first king. He is known for his role in the story of the founding of the city, including the tale of his twin brother Remus, their upbringing, and the subsequent events that led to Romulus establishing the city on Palatine Hill. Romulus symbolizes the ideals of strength, leadership, and the martial spirit that would come to define Roman culture.
The Aeneid: The Aeneid is an epic poem written by the Roman poet Virgil, which tells the story of Aeneas, a Trojan hero, as he journeys to find a new homeland after the fall of Troy. This work is significant as it reflects the values and ideals of ancient Rome while establishing a mythological foundation for the city's origins and destiny.
The fall of Troy: The fall of Troy refers to the legendary event in which the city of Troy was destroyed and its inhabitants defeated during the Trojan War, primarily depicted in ancient epic poetry. This monumental event serves as a pivotal turning point that sets off a chain of consequences, including Odysseus's long journey home and the eventual founding of Rome, highlighting themes of sacrifice and heroism within epic narratives.
The Iliad: The Iliad is an ancient Greek epic poem attributed to Homer, focusing on the events of the Trojan War, particularly the wrath of Achilles. It captures themes of heroism, fate, and the impact of divine intervention in human affairs, making it a foundational text in the study of epic poetry and ancient Greek culture.
The journey to Italy: The journey to Italy refers to the epic voyage of Aeneas, the Trojan hero, as he travels from the ruins of Troy to the shores of Italy, ultimately leading to the founding of Rome. This journey is marked by divine intervention, trials, and encounters with various mythological figures, all of which contribute to the establishment of Aeneas's legacy as the forefather of the Roman people.
The Odyssey: The Odyssey is an ancient Greek epic poem attributed to Homer, recounting the adventures of Odysseus as he attempts to return home after the Trojan War. This narrative is essential in exploring themes of heroism, the struggle for identity, and the significance of family and homecoming in ancient Greek culture.
Troy: Troy is the ancient city that serves as the legendary backdrop for the Trojan War, a pivotal event in Greek mythology and epic poetry. It symbolizes themes of heroism, love, betrayal, and the consequences of war, which are explored through various narratives in works like the Iliad and the Aeneid.
Turnus: Turnus is a prominent character in Virgil's 'Aeneid', serving as the primary antagonist to Aeneas. He is the leader of the Rutulians and fiercely opposes Aeneas's mission to establish a new homeland in Italy, embodying themes of honor, pride, and the struggle for power. His character highlights the conflict between personal ambition and destiny, making him central to the epic's exploration of fate and sacrifice.
Venus: In the context of the Aeneid, Venus is the Roman goddess of love and beauty, who plays a pivotal role in guiding and protecting Aeneas, the epic's hero. She embodies not just romantic love but also maternal care, influencing the fate of Aeneas and his mission to establish Rome. Her interventions illustrate the interplay between divine influence and human destiny, impacting the narrative structure, themes of imperial ideology, and the mythological foundation of Rome.
Virtus: Virtus is a Latin term often translated as 'virtue' or 'excellence,' embodying qualities such as courage, honor, and moral integrity, particularly in the context of Roman culture. This concept is central to understanding the values and ideals of Roman society, especially as they relate to character, leadership, and duty.