Metamorphoses · Chapter
Latian Line explained
The chapter recounts the succession of kings in Latium, focusing on Romulus's restoration of his grandfather Numitor, the founding of Rome, the abduction of the Sabine women, the ensuing war with the Sabines led by Tatius, the betrayal of T
What happens
The chapter recounts the succession of kings in Latium, focusing on Romulus's restoration of his grandfather Numitor, the founding of Rome, the abduction of the Sabine women, the ensuing war with the Sabines led by Tatius, the betrayal of Tarpeia, and the eventual peace treaty that established joint rule. It concludes with Tatius's death and Romulus's long reign.
Themes in this chapter
Violence and Revenge
The chapter depicts the violent abduction of the Sabine women, the ensuing war, and the betrayal and death of Tarpeia, highlighting themes of revenge and conflict.
Creation and Order from Chaos
Romulus establishes Rome from a state of lawlessness, and the eventual treaty between Romans and Sabines brings order after war.
Characters to notice
- Romulus
Restores his grandfather Numitor to the throne, founds Rome, leads the Romans in war against the Sabines, and eventually rules alone after Tatius's death.
- Juno
Saturnia (Juno) uses her arts to aid the Sabines against the Romans.
- Venus
Countermines Juno's schemes by enlisting the Naiads to hinder the Sabine advance.
Key passages
“Latian Line Romulus, having restored his grandfather Numitor to the throne of which he had been unjustly dispossessed by his brother Amulius, at length succeeds to the crown.”
Romulus, after reinstating his grandfather Numitor as king, eventually becomes king himself.
Establishes Romulus's rise to power through rightful restoration.
“He gives the word to seize the Sabine wives.”
Romulus orders the abduction of the Sabine women.
Key event in Rome's founding myth, leading to war.