Roman Mythology Just like Greece, the Romans had their own set of mythological beliefs. This religion was polytheistic (belief in many gods). It was also heavily based on Greek mythology as well. Just like Greek mythology, it provided explanations for natural phenomena, human qualities, and life events. It also heavily influences western symbols, art, architecture, literature, politics, and culture.

Roman Gods and Goddesses Jupiter was king of the gods and the Roman equivalent to the Greek god Zeus. Just like Zeus, Jupiter is depicted carrying a thunder bolt in his hand.

Roman Gods and Goddesses (cont’d) Juno was the wife of Jupiter, as well as the goddess of marriage. She was the Roman equivalent to the Greek goddess Hera.

Roman Gods and Goddesses Apollo was the god of music, art, poetry, etc. His name is the same in Greek and Roman mythology.

Roman Gods and Goddesses (cont’d) Venus was the goddess of love and beauty. She was the Roman equivalent to the Greek goddess Aphrodite. She was Jupiter’s daughter and famous for seducing gods like Mars and Vulcan.

Roman Gods and Goddesses (cont’d) Diana was the goddess of hunting and the moon. She was Apollo’s twin sister. She can usually be seen carrying a bow and arrow. She is the equivalent to the Greek goddess Artemis.

Roman Gods and Goddesses Minerva was the goddess of wisdom. She was the equivalent to the Greek goddess Athena.

Roman Gods and Goddesses (cont’d) Mars was the god of war and was one of Rome’s most popular gods. He is usually seen carrying a spear and a helmet. He is the Roman equivalent to the Greek god Ares.

Roman Gods and Goddesses Mercury was the messenger of the gods. He had wings on his sandals and carried a staff with two snakes wrapped around it. He is the equivalent to the Greek god Hermes.

Roman Gods and Goddesses (cont’d) Neptune was the god of the sea. He carried a trident and controlled the sea and it’s creatures. He is the Roman equivalent to the Greek god Poseidon.

Exit Ticket What was the source of Roman mythology? What impact did Roman mythology have on later civilizations?