According to legend, what animal fed the brothers who founded Rome: a dog, a cow, a wolf or a goat? - briefly
The legend of Rome's founding brothers, Romulus and Remus, is well-known. The animal that famously fed them was a she-wolf.
According to legend, what animal fed the brothers who founded Rome: a dog, a cow, a wolf or a goat? - in detail
The mythological origins of Rome are deeply rooted in ancient tales that have been passed down through generations. One of the most enduring stories involves the founding brothers, Romulus and Remus, and the animal that fed them. This narrative is central to the identity and heritage of Rome, providing a foundational myth that has shaped the city's cultural and historical landscape.
The tale begins with the twins Romulus and Remus, who were said to be the sons of the god Mars and the mortal woman Rhea Silvia. According to the legend, they were abandoned by order of their great-uncle, King Amulius, who feared they would one day challenge his rule. The twins were placed in a basket and set adrift on the Tiber River. The basket eventually came to rest on the banks of the river, where it was discovered by a she-wolf, known as Lupa in Latin.
The she-wolf, instead of harming the infants, took them under her protection and nursed them. This act of compassion and nurturing is a pivotal moment in the legend, symbolizing the strength and resilience of the future city of Rome. The she-wolf's care ensured the survival of the twins, who were later found and raised by a shepherd and his wife.
The she-wolf's role in the legend is not merely a narrative device but a powerful symbol of Rome's origins. The image of the she-wolf nursing the twins has become an iconic representation of the city, appearing on its coat of arms and in various forms of art and literature. This symbolism underscores the themes of protection, nurturing, and the divine favor that the city of Rome was believed to have received from its inception.
In addition to the she-wolf, there is a variant of the story that involves a woodpecker, which is also considered a sacred bird in Roman mythology. According to this version, the woodpecker, along with the she-wolf, provided food and protection to the twins. This dual protection further emphasizes the divine intervention and the sacred nature of Rome's founding.
The legend of the she-wolf and the twins has had a profound impact on Roman culture and identity. It has been used to justify the city's expansion and conquests, as well as to instill a sense of pride and unity among its citizens. The story has been retold and reinterpreted over the centuries, reflecting the changing values and beliefs of the Roman people.
In summary, the animal that fed the brothers who founded Rome, according to legend, is the she-wolf. This mythological creature is a powerful symbol of Rome's origins, representing protection, nurturing, and divine favor. The legend of the she-wolf and the twins has shaped the cultural and historical identity of Rome, providing a foundational narrative that continues to resonate through the ages.