Overview
When Rome was under attack by the Gauls in 390 BC, its citizens believed the city was doomed. Little did they know that help would soon come in the form of unusual creatures—boars, wolves and geese.
Stories tell of how these animals managed to rally together to drive away the invaders and save Rome. But is there truth to this legend, or is it simply a fairy tale?
In this article, we’ll explore the historical evidence behind this remarkable event, looking at how these animals may have actually managed to save the great city of Rome.
Historical Context
In the 5th century BC, Rome was one of the major powers in the Mediterranean. It had achieved great success in its military campaigns and was expanding its influence across the region.
In 390 BC, Rome was invaded by the Gauls. This fierce tribe of warriors had already managed to defeat the neighboring Etruscans, and they were now determined to do the same to Rome.
The Gauls came in vast numbers, and with superior weapons. They quickly overwhelmed the Roman forces, and the city was soon under their occupation.
Faced with certain defeat, the citizens of Rome believed their end was near. But then, something miraculous happened—a group of unusual creatures appeared and drove away the invaders.
The Legend of the Beasts
The story goes that a large herd of boars, wolves and geese were sent to the city by the gods in order to save it from destruction. The animals stormed the city gates and attacked the Gauls, driving them away in terror.
The creatures were believed to have been sent by either the goddess Diana or the god Mars, both of whom were revered in Ancient Rome. The story would later be immortalized in the works of several Roman authors, such as the poet Virgil.
Most scholars agree that this legend is likely just a myth. While it’s possible that some kind of animal attack may have occurred during the siege of Rome, it’s unlikely that an entire herd of animals could have been organized and dispatched to the city in time to ward off the invaders.
Archaeological and literary evidence suggests that the animals may have been symbolic representations of Roman deities, rather than actual creatures.
Biological Explanation
Despite the implausibility of the legend, some experts believe there may be a biological explanation. They argue that the boars, wolves and geese may have been drawn to the city by the smells of the battlefield.
The Gauls would have brought with them food and other supplies, which would have attracted scavenging animals. These creatures may have then taken advantage of the chaotic situation, attacking the Gauls in an attempt to drive them away from the city.
There is also evidence that wolves and boars may have been more numerous in Rome at the time, as the city would have been surrounded by dense forests. This could have further helped to drive the invaders away from the city.
However, there is still no definitive answer as to whether or not animals actually saved Rome from destruction. It is likely that this legend has been exaggerated or fabricated over time.
Political Implications
Regardless of the truth behind the story, it has had a long-lasting impact on Roman politics and culture. The legend of the beasts was used to bolster support for the Roman government, and to emphasize the divine right of the ruling class.
The story was seen as evidence that the gods had chosen Rome to be the great city-state of the Mediterranean, and the legend would later become a major part of Roman mythology.
The animals featured in the story were also adopted as symbols of Roman power. Boars, wolves and geese can be found on coins and statues from the Roman period, and are still used as symbols of the city to this day.
Modern Interpretations
In recent years, the legend of the beasts has been used to examine larger themes in Roman history. Writers and academics have explored issues such as the relationship between the gods and the state, and the way in which legends and folklore shape our understanding of the past.
The legend of the beasts has also been used to analyze the dynamic between the human and animal worlds. Scholars have noted that this story contains a quasi-ecological message, in which animals and humans are viewed as needing to cooperate in order to survive.
Whether or not the legend is true, it has no doubt had a lasting impact on Roman culture and politics.
Influential Legacy
The legend of the beasts has been an influential part of Roman culture for centuries. While the exact details of this event may remain unclear, it is certain that these creatures have left a lasting mark on the city of Rome.
The tale has been used to emphasize the divine right of the rulers, to explore the relationship between humans and animals, and to foster a shared sense of pride and identity among Roman citizens.
Though it may never be known whether the story is true or not, the legend of the beasts has become an integral part of Rome’s unique identity.
Reception of the Story
Since the legend of the beasts was first told, it has been embraced by people of all backgrounds. It is seen as a symbol of hope, of the city’s resilience in the face of impossible odds.
The story is often used in literature and art, and has been adapted for other purposes. It is seen as symbolizing the power of unity, the ability of even the most unlikely creatures to come together and work together for a greater purpose.
The legend of the beasts is a reminder that even the most unlikely of heroes can come together to achieve great things.
Conclusion
The legend of the beasts is one of the most enduring stories in Roman history. Whether or not it is true, the story has become an important part of Rome’s identity and culture, and has been used to explore larger themes in Roman politics and society.
The story of the animals who saved Rome has become a symbol of resilience, of the power of unity, and of the strength of even the most unlikely of heroes.
