What Are the 2 Legends of Rome?
Rome, the eternal city, is renowned for its rich history and fascinating legends. Among the many stories that surround this ancient city, two legends stand out as iconic tales that have shaped Rome’s cultural identity. These legends are the foundation of Rome’s origin and its rise to prominence as one of the greatest civilizations in history.
The Legend of Romulus and Remus
One of the most famous legends associated with Rome is the tale of Romulus and Remus. According to this story, Rome was founded by twin brothers named Romulus and Remus who were born in Alba Longa, a city near present-day Rome.
Their birth was not ordinary; they were believed to be the sons of Mars, the god of war, and Rhea Silvia, a Vestal Virgin princess. However, their wicked uncle Amulius seized power in Alba Longa and forced their mother to become a Vestal Virgin to prevent any claim to the throne by her descendants.
Despite their extraordinary lineage, Romulus and Remus lived a humble life as shepherds. They eventually discovered their true identity and decided to reclaim their rightful place as rulers of Alba Longa.
In an attempt to regain power, Romulus and Remus gathered supporters and overthrew their uncle Amulius. Afterward, they set out on a mission to establish a new city where they had been abandoned as infants – at the site where they had been found by a she-wolf who nurtured them with her milk.
However, conflict arose between the two brothers over which hill would serve as the foundation for their new city – Palatine Hill or Aventine Hill. Unable to agree, they sought guidance from divine signs. Romulus, on Palatine Hill, witnessed a sign of twelve vultures, while Remus, on Aventine Hill, claimed to have seen six vultures.
Interpreting the sign as a divine endorsement of his chosen hill, Romulus began to build the city walls of Rome. This act led to a heated dispute between the brothers, which eventually escalated to violence. Romulus killed Remus and became the sole ruler of Rome, naming the city after himself.
The Legend of Aeneas
The second legendary tale associated with Rome is the story of Aeneas. According to Roman mythology, Aeneas was a Trojan hero who fought in the Trojan War against the Greeks. After Troy fell to the Greeks and was destroyed, Aeneas embarked on a long and perilous journey.
Aeneas traveled across lands and seas in search of a new home for his people. He faced numerous challenges and encountered mythical creatures such as Cyclops and sirens along the way.
After years of wandering, Aeneas arrived in Italy where he found love with Lavinia, daughter of King Latinus. With her father’s blessing, they established a new kingdom that would eventually become Rome.
Aeneas’ descendants played significant roles in shaping Roman history. His son Ascanius founded Alba Longa, from which Romulus and Remus were descended.
In Conclusion
These two legends – that of Romulus and Remus and that of Aeneas – are deeply intertwined with Rome’s history and cultural identity. They serve as symbols of its founding and its connection to both divine origins and heroic lineage.
Understanding these legends helps us appreciate Rome’s rich heritage and comprehend its enduring influence on Western civilization. The tales of Romulus and Remus and Aeneas continue to captivate the imagination, keeping the spirit of ancient Rome alive.