WHY DOES AENEAS KILL TURNUS

The Rivalry Between Aeneas and Turnus

The story of Aeneas and Turnus is one of the most epic and tragic tales in Roman mythology. Aeneas, a Trojan prince, is forced to flee his homeland after the Trojan War and sets out on a journey to find a new home for his people. Turnus, king of the Rutulians, is a proud and powerful warrior who is determined to prevent Aeneas from settling in Italy. The two men become bitter rivals, and their conflict eventually leads to a climactic duel that will decide the fate of both their peoples.

A Clash of Cultures

The rivalry between Aeneas and Turnus is more than just a personal feud. It is also a clash of cultures. Aeneas represents the civilized world of Greece and Rome, while Turnus represents the wild and untamed world of the Italian tribes. Aeneas is a pious man who believes in the gods and in his destiny. Turnus is a proud warrior who values honor and glory above all else. The two men are fundamentally different, and their conflict is inevitable.

The Love of Lavinia

The final straw that breaks the camels back and sets Aeneas and Turnus on a collision course is the love of Lavinia, the daughter of King Latinus. Lavinia is a beautiful and virtuous young woman, and both Aeneas and Turnus are smitten with her. Latinus initially promises Lavinia to Aeneas, but he is forced to change his mind when Turnus threatens to go to war. Aeneas is furious, and he vows to win Lavinia back, even if it means fighting Turnus to the death.

The Duel

The climax of the story of Aeneas and Turnus is the duel between the two men. The duel takes place on the banks of the Numicius River, and it is witnessed by both armies. Aeneas and Turnus fight bravely, but in the end, Aeneas is victorious. He kills Turnus with a single blow of his sword, and the Rutulians are defeated.

The Aftermath of the Duel

The death of Turnus marks the end of the conflict between the Trojans and the Rutulians. Aeneas is able to settle in Italy and found the city of Rome. Turnus is remembered as a great warrior and a tragic hero. His death is a reminder of the cost of war and the futility of violence.

Conclusion

The story of Aeneas and Turnus is a classic tale of love, loss, and betrayal. It is a story that has been told and retold for centuries, and it continues to resonate with readers today. The story is a reminder that even the greatest heroes are flawed, and that even the most bitter conflicts can be resolved through peace and understanding.

FAQs

1. Why did Aeneas kill Turnus?
   Aeneas killed Turnus because Turnus challenged him to a duel to the death. Aeneas accepted the challenge and killed Turnus in the duel.

2. What was the outcome of the duel between Aeneas and Turnus?
   Aeneas was victorious in the duel and killed Turnus.

3. What was the significance of the duel between Aeneas and Turnus?
   The duel between Aeneas and Turnus was the climax of the conflict between the Trojans and the Rutulians. The outcome of the duel determined the fate of both peoples.

4. What was the relationship between Aeneas and Lavinia?
   Aeneas and Lavinia were in love with each other. Latinus, Lavinia's father, initially promised Lavinia to Aeneas, but he was forced to change his mind when Turnus threatened to go to war.

5. What was the significance of the death of Turnus?
   The death of Turnus marked the end of the conflict between the Trojans and the Rutulians. It also marked the beginning of a new era of peace and prosperity for the people of Italy.