In the annals of ancient history, the name Remus is often overshadowed by that of his twin brother, Romulus. Yet, the life and contributions of Remus are integral to the foundation and mythology of Rome. This article delves into the fascinating life of Remus, exploring his birth, upbringing, the legendary founding of Rome, and his enduring legacy.
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Birth and Early Life of Remus
Remus and his twin brother, Romulus, were born in the mythical city of Alba Longa, which was situated along the Tiber River. Their mother, Rhea Silvia, was a Vestal Virgin, dedicated to the service of the goddess Vesta, and their father, Mars, the god of war, had impregnated her, making their birth a matter of divine significance.
Legend has it that the twins’ birthright was a turbulent one from the very beginning. Fearing the prophecy that they would overthrow him, their grandfather, King Numitor, ordered them to be cast into the Tiber River.
However, fate intervened, and they were rescued by a she-wolf, who nurtured and protected them until they were found by a shepherd, Faustulus, and his wife, Acca Larentia. Raised as humble shepherds, Remus and Romulus grew into strong and courageous young men.
The Founding of Rome
The legend of the founding of Rome is where Remus’s story truly intertwines with that of his brother, Romulus. As they reached adulthood, the twins learned of their true lineage and the injustices that had been done to their grandfather, King Numitor. With this knowledge, they decided to take action.
The brothers, along with a band of loyal followers, marched on Alba Longa and successfully restored King Numitor to the throne. Having achieved this, they turned their attention to fulfilling their destiny, which was to establish a new city of their own. However, a disagreement over the location of the city’s foundation led to a tragic and fateful event.
According to the myth, Remus and Romulus selected two hills overlooking the Tiber River as potential sites for the city, with Romulus choosing the Palatine Hill and Remus opting for the Aventine Hill. Unable to resolve their dispute, they sought a sign from the gods. Romulus claimed to have received divine approval when a flock of birds appeared over his chosen hill. Remus, in a fit of frustration or possibly divine displeasure, leaped over the walls of his brother’s unfinished city, an act that was deemed sacrilegious.
In response to this affront, Romulus, or one of his supporters, fatally struck Remus. This event marked the end of Remus’s life but the beginning of the city of Rome. Romulus continued as the sole founder and ruler of Rome, which was named in his honor.
Legacy and Historical Debate
Remus’s death is shrouded in myth and legend, making it difficult to separate fact from fiction. Some believe that the story of the twins and their founding of Rome is purely symbolic and should not be taken as historical fact. Others contend that there may be some historical basis for the legend, though it has been embellished over the centuries.
Regardless of the historical accuracy, the story of Remus and Romulus remains central to the identity and mythology of Rome. It symbolizes the city’s enduring spirit, its ties to both mortal and divine forces, and the ambition of its founders.
In art and literature, Remus is often depicted as the tragic figure, the one who met an untimely end, while Romulus is celebrated as the victorious hero. However, Remus’s role in the founding of Rome should not be overlooked. He was, after all, a co-founder of the city and played a vital role in the early events of its history.
Fictional Diary Entry from Remus
Below is an attempt at writing a fictional diary entry from Remus (in Heaven), with the aim of making his character and history come to life. Enjoy!
Dear Diary,
Today marked another chapter in the ever-evolving tale of my life. As I sit here beneath the shimmering moonlight on the banks of the Tiber River, I find solace in the gentle rustling of the reeds and the distant echoes of Rome, the city I helped create, now growing and thriving beyond imagination.
It has been a tumultuous journey since the day Romulus and I were rescued by the she-wolf and raised as humble shepherds by Faustulus and Acca Larentia. The world has bestowed upon us a divine lineage, a destiny that was both a blessing and a curse.
In our youth, Romulus and I were inseparable. Our bond was unbreakable, and our dreams soared as high as the eagles that grace our skies. We discovered our true heritage and, guided by the injustice done to our grandfather, King Numitor, we embarked on a quest to restore him to the throne of Alba Longa.
We succeeded, and our noble actions were celebrated throughout the land. But destiny had greater plans for us, for we were destined to found a city of our own, a city that would become Rome. Our vision was strong, our ambition unwavering, and our love for each other unquestionable.
Yet, it was our love and ambition that ultimately led to our fateful disagreement over the site of Rome’s foundation. My heart longed for the Aventine Hill, while Romulus chose the Palatine Hill. We were caught in a web of divine signs and stubborn pride, and in a moment of heated frustration, I leaped over the walls of his unfinished city. It was a foolish, perhaps sacrilegious act, but it was also an act born of passion and desperation.
The blow that followed, whether from Romulus’s hand or one of his supporters, struck me down. As I lay there, gazing up at the night sky with the stars twinkling like distant memories, I pondered the cruel irony of my fate. I had helped create Rome, yet I would never see it rise to its full glory.
In death, I became a symbol of tragedy, a reminder of the sacrifices made in the pursuit of dreams. Romulus, my brother, continued as the sole founder of Rome, and the city flourished under his leadership. I hope that Rome thrives and prospers, for it carries a piece of my spirit within its walls.
As I write these words by the tranquil waters of the Tiber, I find a strange sense of peace. My life may have been short, my dreams left unfulfilled, but I played my part in shaping the destiny of a great city. My name, Remus, may fade into the annals of history, but the legend of Rome will endure for all time.
Farewell, dear Diary, and farewell to the city of Rome, my eternal legacy.
Yours in spirit,
Remus