Roman Mythology SOL WHI.6

Purpose of Roman Mythology As with Greek Mythology, Roman mythology was a polytheistic religion (worship of many gods) Roman mythology helped people explain natural phenomena, human qualities, and life events Romans worshipped spirits that were believed to live in natural features and places

Jupiter “God of all Gods” Equivalent to the Greek God Zeus Most powerful of all gods and goddesses Supreme ruler of all Roman Mythology

Juno Equivalent to the Greek goddess Hera Married to Jupiter (Zeus) Queen of the gods Also known as the goddess of marriage

Apollo Same name as in Greek mythology God of poetry and music Son of Jupiter

Diana Equivalent to the Greek goddess and twin sister of Apollo, Artemis As with Greek mythology, she was the goddess of the hunt

Minerva Equivalent to the Greek goddess Athena Also known as the goddess of wisdom and war/peace She was Jupiter’s favorite child

Venus Equivalent to the Greek goddess Aphrodite As with Greek mythology, she was the goddess of love and beauty

Summary of Roman Mythology Very similar to Greek mythology Roman mythological symbols and images were commonly found in literature, art, monumental architecture, and politics Overall, as with the Greeks, the Romans looked to their gods and goddesses to direct them down the right path