Foundation of Rome
The first part of Virgil shows the history of Rome’s foundation. In Book I, Aeneas’ fate in
building a city in Lavinia and becoming the ancestor of the founder of Rome, Romulus,
was revealed. His future lineage was further disclosed by Anchises in Book VI, giving
emphasis on both Romulus, the son of Mars who is going to be the founder of Rome, and
Augustus, who will cultivate the Golden Age. Aeneas mission to build a new city was
mainly the theme of the first six books. He struggled so much in order to fulfill his duty.
For example he endured Juno’s wrath in his voyage in the sea and also lost the battle
against the Greeks in the Trojan War. The most remarkable sacrifices, I suppose, was
Aeneas’ betrayal of his love for Dido. In Book 4, Mercury appeared to Aeneas and said the
following:
“Are you now laying the foundation of high Carthage, as servant to a woman, building her
a splendid city here? Are you forgetful of what is your own kingdom, your own fate?”
(353-356; p.90)
Clearly, he ought to prioritize what he is destined to do, and by doing so he has to set aside
his own self-glorified image and own passion for the greater good of his people and for the
future of the Trojans. This kind of heroism, of doing something for the good of others,