Review of Virgil's Aeneid and Key Historical Context

A series of vocabulary flashcards covering essential terms and concepts related to Virgil's Aeneid, key historical figures, and themes discussed during the lecture.

Aeneas

A Trojan hero and the protagonist of Virgil's Aeneid, destined to found Rome.

Pietas

The Roman virtue of duty to the gods, family, and country, exemplified by Aeneas.

Juno’s anger

The goddess Juno harbors resentment against Aeneas and the Trojans, influencing events.

In medias res

A narrative technique where the story begins in the middle of the action; used in the Aeneid.

Dido

Queen of Carthage who falls in love with Aeneas, resulting in tragedy.

Actium

The site of the naval battle where Octavian defeated Mark Antony and Cleopatra.

Destiny

The concept that Aeneas is fated to establish the Roman nation, reflecting a central theme of the Aeneid.

Venus

The Roman goddess of love and mother of Aeneas, who aids him in his quest.

Anchises

Aeneas's father, whom he carries out of Troy; symbolizes duty and family.

Sibyl of Cumae

A prophetess who guides Aeneas through the Underworld.

Golden bough

A mystical branch that Aeneas must retrieve to gain access to the Underworld.

Mercury’s message

A communication from the messenger god that urges Aeneas to leave Dido.

Creusa

Aeneas's wife who is lost during the flight from Troy.

Augustus

The first Roman emperor, heir of Julius Caesar and a central figure in Roman history.

Vergil/Virgil

The Roman poet who authored the Aeneid, central to Latin literature.

Cleopatra

The last active ruler of the Ptolemaic Kingdom of Egypt, linked with both Julius Caesar and Mark Antony.

Omen

A divine sign or prophetic symbol that influences decisions and actions.

Bk. 6

Refers to the sixth book of the Aeneid, detailing Aeneas's journey to the Underworld.

Pius Aeneas

A term describing Aeneas as dutiful, reflecting his commitment to fate and family.

Roman founding myth

Stories surrounding the origins of Rome, prominently featured in the Aeneid.