Early Rome & Society

Aeneas

Trojan hero Romans believed founded their lineage after fleeing Troy.

Romulus & Remus

Twin brothers raised by a wolf; Romulus kills Remus and founds Rome.

Etruscans

Early rulers of Rome before the Republic; influenced Rome culture.

Patricians

Elite, wealthy Roman families with the most political power.

Plebians (Plebs)

Common people; fought for rights during the Conflict of Order.

Paterfamilias

Male head of household with total authority over a family.

Vestal Virgins

Priestesses who kept Rome’s sacred fire; highly respected and protected.

Confarratio

Formal, religious type of Roman marriage used by elites.

Sextus Tarquin

His actions caused the overthrow of the monarchy and the rule of king Lucius Tarquinius Superbus.