The ancient Romans had a rich mythology and, while much of it was derived from their neighbors and predecessors, the Greeks, it still defined the rich history of the Roman people as they eventually grew into an empire. Roman writers such as Ovid and Virgil documented and extended the mythological heritage of the ancient Mediterranean to gives us such long-lasting and iconic figures as Aeneas, Vesta, Janus, and the twin founders of Rome itself, Romulus and Remus.
This is a companion discussion topic for the original definition at https://www.worldhistory.org/Roman_Mythology/.
Join the Conversation
- Why do you think the Romans changed Greek myths to fit their own values?
- How do the stories of Romulus and Remus shape the way people see Rome?
- Do you think myths are more useful as history or as stories about beliefs?
Is there anything you'd like to ask me about this definition? Ask away — and if you spot something that should be covered, that's useful to know too.