The Aeneid

by Virgil

As a result, rather than being simple propaganda, the Aeneid is in many ways a story about stories (or national myths), and how they work. It is an epic that tells a story of foundation but puts on display the fault lines at the base of its own edifice, revealing the mechanisms at work in wholesome origin-stories and justifications of imperial aggression.

Just as riots often fester in great crowds when the common mob goes mad; rocks and

but if they see a man of weight in piety and service, they hush and wait to hear him; he guides their minds and soothes their hearts with words—

what land isn’t steeped in what we’ve suffered? Look: it’s Priam. Here too, glory has rewards; the world weeps, and mortal matters move the heart. Let go your fear. This fame will bring some safety.” He spoke, and fed his soul on empty images, sighing heavily. Tears streamed down his face.

If you scorn humans and their weapons, at least assume the gods know justice and injustice!

Knowing 630 pain, I can learn to help the pain of others.”

This was the first day of death, the first cause 170 of ruin. She’s unmoved by rumor or appearance and no longer plans to hide her love: she says they’re wed. With this word she masks her fault.