Story Summary
Explore the epic legend of Romulus and Remus, the twins raised by a wolf whose tragic rivalry led to the founding of Rome and the birth of a mighty empire.
Born to Rhea Silvia and the god Mars, the twin brothers Romulus and Remus were seen as a threat to their great-uncle Amulius, who had usurped the throne of Alba Longa. To protect his power, Amulius ordered the infants drowned in the Tiber River. However, the river god slowed the current, and the basket containing the twins drifted to safety. A she-wolf discovered the crying infants and, instead of preying on them, nursed them with her own milk. Later, a shepherd named Faustulus found the boys and raised them as his own. Upon reaching adulthood, the brothers discovered their true heritage, killed Amulius, and restored their grandfather Numitor to the throne. Desiring to build their own city, they returned to the area where they were saved. However, they could not agree on which hill to settle: Romulus favored the Palatine, while Remus preferred the Aventine. They sought signs from the gods through the flight of birds, but the omens only fueled their rivalry. In the heat of a dispute over the height of the new city walls, Romulus killed his brother. Romulus became the sole ruler, and the city was named Rome in his honor.
The Moral
The founding of great civilizations often requires immense sacrifice, yet internal strife and the pursuit of absolute power can destroy even the closest bonds.
“So perish every one that shall hereafter leap over my wall.”
Fun Fact
The famous bronze statue known as the Capitoline Wolf is a symbol of Rome, but the figures of the two twins were actually added to the ancient wolf sculpture during the 15th century.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the moral of Romulus and Remus?
The story illustrates that the path to power is often paved with sacrifice and conflict. It warns that pride and sibling rivalry can lead to tragic consequences, even when building something destined for greatness.
Who raised Romulus and Remus?
After being abandoned in the Tiber, the twins were first saved and nursed by a she-wolf. They were eventually found and raised to adulthood by a shepherd named Faustulus and his wife, Acca Larentia.
How did Romulus and Remus decide where to build Rome?
The brothers engaged in augury, the interpretation of bird omens. Remus saw six vultures first, but Romulus saw twelve later, leading to a bitter disagreement over whose sign was superior and which hill should be the city's site.
Why did Romulus kill Remus?
During the construction of the city walls, Remus mocked their low height by leaping over them. Romulus, feeling insulted and protective of his new city's sovereignty, killed Remus in a fit of rage.
Is the story of Romulus and Remus a true story?
The tale is a founding myth rather than a historical fact, though it contains elements of early Roman culture. While Romulus may be a legendary figure, the story provided Romans with a sense of divine origin and national identity.
What happened to Romulus after founding Rome?
Romulus served as the first King of Rome for many years, establishing the Senate and the city's military. According to legend, he did not die but vanished in a great storm, ascending to heaven to be worshipped as the god Quirinus.