Lupa capitolina

Definition

The Lupa Capitolina, or Capitoline Wolf, is a bronze statue that depicts a she-wolf nursing the legendary twin founders of Rome, Romulus and Remus. This iconic image symbolizes the founding myths of Rome, emphasizing themes of survival, nurturing, and the divine origins of the city's founders. The statue has become a powerful emblem of Roman identity and is closely tied to the narratives surrounding the origins of the Roman state.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Lupa Capitolina statue dates back to the 5th century BCE, although its exact origin is uncertain, with various legends attributing its creation to different artists.
2. The statue became associated with Rome's foundation myths in the Renaissance, where it was seen as a symbol of the eternal city and its legendary beginnings.
3. Originally, the wolf was not depicted nursing twins; the addition of Romulus and Remus was made later, around the 15th century.
4. The Lupa Capitolina is housed at the Museo dei Conservatori on the Capitoline Hill in Rome, making it a significant cultural and historical landmark.
5. The statue's influence extends beyond art; it has inspired numerous representations in literature, sculpture, and modern media as a symbol of Rome's resilience and origins.

Review Questions

• How does the Lupa Capitolina relate to the foundational stories of Rome and its symbolic importance?
  • The Lupa Capitolina serves as a visual representation of the foundational myths of Rome, particularly the story of Romulus and Remus. By depicting the she-wolf nurturing these twins, it emphasizes themes of protection and survival that are central to Rome's identity. The statue not only celebrates the mythic origins of the city but also reinforces cultural values such as strength and resilience, making it an enduring symbol throughout Roman history.
• Discuss how interpretations of the Lupa Capitolina have changed from its creation to modern times.
  • Initially created as a standalone representation of a wolf, interpretations of the Lupa Capitolina evolved significantly over time. During the Renaissance, it became associated with Romulus and Remus, enhancing its narrative significance as a symbol of Rome’s legendary origins. Today, while still revered as an iconic image, it also serves as a broader representation of Roman identity and heritage that resonates with themes of nationalism and cultural pride.
• Evaluate the impact of the Lupa Capitolina on contemporary understandings of Roman mythology and identity.
  • The Lupa Capitolina has had a profound impact on how Roman mythology is perceived today. By encapsulating key elements of Rome’s founding myth through its imagery, it contributes to a collective understanding that blends history with legend. In contemporary discussions about Roman identity, this statue embodies values such as endurance and strength that resonate even in modern narratives about nationhood. Thus, it not only serves as an artistic treasure but also as an enduring symbol that continues to inspire reflections on cultural identity throughout history.

Related terms

Romulus: Romulus is one of the twin sons of Mars and Rhea Silvia, credited with founding the city of Rome in 753 BCE after allegedly killing his brother Remus.

Remus: Remus is the twin brother of Romulus, known for his tragic fate in the founding myth of Rome, where he was killed by Romulus over a dispute regarding the city's boundaries.

Mars: Mars is the Roman god of war and father to Romulus and Remus, representing strength and martial prowess in Roman culture.