Roman myths Flashcards
(23 cards)
How do Roman myths differ from Greek myths?
Roman myths are not the same as Greek myths; they were often adapted or transformed.
Roman myths like Remus and Romulus and the Sabine abductions often have political and moral aspects.
What are the 7 legendary kings of Rome?
- Romulus
- Numa Pompilius
- Tullus Hostilius
- Ancus Martius
- Tarquinius Priscus
- Servius Tullius
- Tarquinius Superbus
These kings played a significant role in the early history of Rome.
What does the depiction of something on a coin signify?
It means that the subject was well known.
Who was Coriolanus and what was his significance?
Coriolanus was driven out of Rome and later led the Volskans against it, illustrating the theme ‘the enemy of my enemy is my friend.’
This raises questions about the boundaries between history and myth.
What does ‘Interpretatio Romana’ refer to?
It refers to the harmonization of foreign gods with Roman gods.
What are the Dii consentes?
They are the 12 Greek Olympians.
Which god was imported from Frygia and what was significant about his cult?
Kybele, the Magna Mater, was significant because her priests castrated themselves.
Who was Mithras?
Mithras was a god imported to Rome who had his own cult.
What role did Priapus play in Roman mythology?
He was a god of sexuality, more important in Rome than in Greece, depicted with an enormous phallus.
Who is Janus and what does he represent?
Janus is the Roman god of doors, passages, gateways, and all beginnings, depicted with two faces.
What are the Lares in Roman mythology?
They are three gods who were protectors of space and household gods.
What does the name ‘Pomona’ refer to?
Pomona is the goddess of fruit, gardens, and orchards.
Who was Aeneas and what is his significance?
Aeneas was considered the ancestor of the Romans, a survivor of Troy, and the founder of Lavinium.
who claimed Aeneas was the founder of Lavinium, and his son founded Alba Longa.
Livy
How does Vergil’s Aeneid relate to Emperor Augustus?
Aeneas serves as a mythological prefiguration of Augustus, justifying Rome’s quest for supremacy.
What is a key difference between the travels of Aeneas and Odysseus?
Aeneas’ travels take place mainly in the real world, while Odysseus’ travels are mainly in a fantasy realm.
What significant event does Aeneas’ journey to Italy represent?
It is seen as a kind of homecoming for the Trojans.
What is the significance of the duel between Aeneas and Turnus?
It parallels the duel between Achilles and Hector in the Iliad.
What is a katabasis?
It refers to a descent into the underworld.
What does the Capitoline wolf sculpture depict?
It depicts Romulus and Remus being nursed by the she-wolf.
Who are the parents of Remus and Romulus?
rhea Silva is their mother, and Mars is their father.
What led to the death of Remus?
Remus was killed by Romulus during a quarrel over who should be king.
Fill in the blank: Aeneas’ first wife was _______.
Creusa
