Classical Studies 2200 Lecture Notes - Lecture 20: Rhea Silvia, Alba Longa, Numen

• School: Western University
• Department: Classical Studies
• Course: Classical Studies 2200
• Professor: Aara Suksi

Document Summary

Strong links to roman history (legends), with has fewer supernatural elements than greek legend, more realistic. Myths were patriotic in support of roman state whereas greek mythology often problematized political structures. Influences on roman myths: native italian (latin) traditions/religion: Countless divine numina (to nod ascent) (s. numen): nodders", not anthropomorphic, limited in function. Examples: janus, gate": a numen of doors, bridges, january is the gateway to the new year. Sacrificium: ( making sacred") a transfer of goods into ownership of numen, who was to give something in return (do ut des i give so that you may give). Pray to the gods asking for something and hope that they nod ascent: etruscan myth and ritual. Culturally sophisticated (art and engineering) and politically powerful nation that dominated much of the italian peninsula until about 509 bce (when the roman revolt occurred). They are the source of names of several gods, e. g. minerva (athena), juno (hera), jupiter (zeus).