In an era when entertainment was usually through various forms of performance and theater, stories had amazing power. Caesar Augustus made great strides during the Golden Age of Rome to beautify and enrich the city of Rome, as well as to cement Roman power and authority. Stories such as that of Romulus and Remus helped to solidify Rome’s connections with powerful divinities and mythical origins.
In this activity, students compare events in the story to historical events or to effects on public opinion. Also check out Propaganda for additional background.
Other possible comparisons include:
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create a storyboard comparing the events in the story of Romulus and Remus to historical events or it's impact on public opinion.
Capture student interest by inviting them to rewrite or perform the Romulus and Remus myth in their own words. This encourages deeper understanding and connects mythology to student expression.
Promote collaboration by having students work in groups to outline key events and characters. Group work sparks discussion and helps students organize their ideas before retelling.
Offer choices such as performing a skit, drawing a comic, or writing a news report about the myth. Multiple formats allow students to use their strengths and keep the activity engaging.
Encourage critical thinking by having students include parallels to Roman history, like referencing Augustus or the founding of Rome. This deepens understanding of myth’s impact on culture and society.
Build confidence by allowing students to share their retellings and receive positive, constructive feedback. Presentations reinforce learning and celebrate student creativity.
The myth of Romulus and Remus reinforced Rome's divine origins, connecting the city with powerful gods like Mars and legitimizing its authority. This story shaped public opinion by promoting unity, justifying leadership, and inspiring pride in Roman heritage.
Events in the Romulus and Remus myth mirror real Roman history, such as political betrayals like Julius Caesar's assassination and the city's conflicts with Carthage. These parallels helped Romans find meaning and lessons in their own past.
Students can use a T-Chart to list events from the myth alongside similar historical events or examples of propaganda, then illustrate each to visualize the connections between legend and reality in ancient Rome.
A T-Chart is a graphic organizer with two columns. In this lesson, one side shows events from the Romulus and Remus myth, while the other side lists corresponding historical events or instances of propaganda, helping students compare and analyze both.
Romans used myths such as Romulus and Remus as propaganda to strengthen national identity, justify political power, and claim divine favor. These stories helped leaders unite citizens and legitimize their rule.