Faustulus
Early Life
Faustulus was a figure in Roman mythology, known as the shepherd who found the infants Romulus and Remus, who were the legendary founders of Rome. The story of Faustulus is deeply intertwined with the myth of the founding of Rome, and his role is pivotal in the survival and upbringing of the twins.
According to the legend, Faustulus was a shepherd who served the king Amulius. He found the twins Romulus and Remus as infants, abandoned in a basket on the banks of the river Tiber. The twins were the children of the god Mars and Rhea Silvia, the daughter of the deposed king Numitor. Amulius, who had usurped the throne from Numitor, feared that the twins would grow up to reclaim the throne, and so ordered them to be killed. However, the servant who was tasked with this could not bring himself to murder the infants and instead left them in a basket by the river, where Faustulus found them.
Role in the Founding of Rome
Faustulus, upon discovering the twins, took them to his wife Acca Larentia who nursed and raised them. The couple were childless and took the twins as their own, raising them as shepherds. Unaware of their royal lineage, Romulus and Remus grew up under the care of Faustulus and Acca Larentia, tending to the flocks and living the life of shepherds.
Faustulus is often depicted in Roman art and literature as the humble shepherd who played a crucial role in the founding of Rome. His discovery of the twins and his decision to raise them set the stage for the eventual establishment of Rome. Despite his humble status, Faustulus is seen as a figure of great importance in Roman mythology, as his actions directly led to the founding of one of the greatest empires in history.
Later Life and Death
In later years, after Romulus and Remus discovered their true heritage, they overthrew Amulius and reinstated their grandfather Numitor as king. Faustulus was killed in the ensuing battle against Amulius. His death was mourned by Romulus and Remus, who held him in high regard for his kindness and for raising them. Despite his tragic end, the legacy of Faustulus lived on through Romulus and Remus and the city they founded.
Legacy
The story of Faustulus has been depicted in various forms of art and literature throughout history. His character is often used as a symbol of humility and kindness, and his actions are seen as a testament to the impact that one individual can have on the course of history. The story of Faustulus serves as a reminder of the humble origins of Rome and the pivotal role that he played in its founding.