Ab urbe condita

Definition

Ab urbe condita is a Latin phrase that means 'from the founding of the city' and refers to the traditional date of the founding of Rome in 753 BCE. This term serves as a chronological marker for Roman history, shaping narratives about Rome's origins and development, as well as influencing the writing of history by Roman historians, particularly Livy. The phrase highlights the significance of Rome's foundation myths and early historical events that contributed to the identity and cultural memory of Rome.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The date traditionally assigned to the founding of Rome is 753 BCE, which sets the starting point for the Roman calendar and historical records based on ab urbe condita.
2. Livy's work 'Ab Urbe Condita' consists of multiple volumes and provides a comprehensive account of Rome's history, emphasizing moral lessons and the virtues of its early leaders.
3. The phrase ab urbe condita was used by Romans to denote years in their calendar system, referring to years as so many years since the city's founding.
4. Ab urbe condita reflects not just historical dates but also conveys important cultural and mythological narratives that shaped Roman identity over centuries.
5. Livy's narrative style combined storytelling with historical analysis, making his account influential in both ancient and modern interpretations of Rome's history.

Review Questions

• How does the concept of ab urbe condita relate to the founding myths of Rome, particularly regarding Romulus?
  • Ab urbe condita is deeply intertwined with the founding myths of Rome, especially the story of Romulus. According to legend, Romulus founded the city in 753 BCE after a series of significant events, including his conflict with his brother Remus. This mythical origin not only marks the beginning of Rome but also embodies themes of conflict, sacrifice, and divine favor that are central to Roman cultural identity. The phrase serves as a reminder of these foundational stories that have been passed down through generations.
• Discuss how Livy's 'Ab Urbe Condita' contributes to our understanding of Roman national history and identity.
  • Livy's 'Ab Urbe Condita' is pivotal in shaping our understanding of Roman national history by narrating events from Rome's mythical beginnings through to its expansion as a powerful empire. His emphasis on moral virtues and exemplary figures creates a framework for Romans to view their past with pride while reinforcing values like courage and civic duty. By documenting history in this manner, Livy not only chronicles facts but also constructs a narrative that contributes significantly to the Roman sense of identity and purpose.
• Evaluate how the use of ab urbe condita as a chronological marker has influenced later historical writings about Rome and its legacy.
  • The use of ab urbe condita as a chronological marker has had profound implications for later historical writings about Rome. By establishing a clear starting point based on the city's legendary foundation, historians could structure their narratives around this foundational event. This approach has influenced how subsequent historians interpret and frame Roman history, often emphasizing its origins as crucial to understanding its development. The legacy of this method persists in modern historiography, where dates and milestones continue to serve as reference points for analyzing civilizations' rise and fall.

Related terms

Romulus: The legendary founder of Rome, Romulus is said to have established the city and become its first king after a series of significant events that included the founding myth involving his twin brother Remus.

Livy: Titus Livius, known as Livy, was a Roman historian who wrote 'Ab Urbe Condita,' a monumental work detailing Roman history from its legendary origins through the early days of the empire.

Chronology: The arrangement of events in the order of their occurrence, which in Roman context often began with the founding of the city as a key reference point for historical timelines.