Roman Myths and Literature

These flashcards are designed to help students familiarize themselves with key terms and concepts from Roman myths and literature, particularly focusing on the Aeneid and associated myths.

Aeneas

A fictional hero from Troy who is destined to found the city that would become Rome.

Pietas

A Latin word that translates to responsibility or duty, a central theme in the Aeneid.

Dactylic Hexameter

The metrical scheme used in the Aeneid and by Virgil, consisting of lines made up of long and short syllables.

Jupiter

The most powerful of the Roman gods, often associated with the sky.

Virgil

A Roman poet who authored the Aeneid, Eclogues, and Georgics.

Metamorphoses

A poetic work by Ovid that serves as a databank of Greek and Roman myths, focused on transformation.

Pomona

A minor goddess of fruit, particularly apples, who was courted by Vertumnus.

Romulus and Remus

The twin brothers whose myth narrates the founding of Rome; Romulus ultimately kills Remus.

Venus

The Roman goddess of love, who plays a significant role in the Aeneid.

Dido

Queen of Carthage who falls in love with Aeneas and ultimately takes her own life due to his departure.

The Aeneid

An epic poem depicting Aeneas' journey and his destined role in founding Rome.

Oral Tradition

A method of storytelling prevalent in ancient cultures, including the presentation of the Aeneid.