Who Was the Greater Man, Theseus or Romulus?

 by Amelia Rahman

Romulus was a figurehead in Ancient Rome, revered as an inspirational figure and legend due to his discovery of the ancient city. The corresponding figure in Ancient Greek Culture was Theseus, a hero with divine right and lineage to the God of the sea Poseidon. Both heroes inform us about the different societies and civilisations as these luminaries encapsulated what it meant to be one of the Greats. Their characteristics reflected on the worthy virtues considerable at the time. One could argue that the hero's represent the principles in each civilisation and its way of life.  Who, then, was the superior hero? Theseus the divine King of Athens or Romulus the legendary founder of Rome?

One may believe that Theseus was a better man than Romulus because he went out of his effort to be brave and to accomplish virtue. For example, Theseus had two ways of getting to Athens: by sea (the preferable option) or by land, where he would encounter vile creatures guarding the six doors to the underworld. He valiantly took the land path and defeated Epidaurus, Sinis, the Crommyonian swine, Sciron, among others. He vanquished four robbers, one monster pig, and one giant, triumphing by strength and intelligence in each combat. The sea route would have been easier and simpler (as Poseidon's offspring, it was the apparent calmer choice), but Theseus was gallant and went out of his way to be heroic and rid the community of these monsters. Caring much more about the safety of his people than of his own profit or conveniences. Romulus was an exile and a slave; the possibility of death hung over him if he did not succeed, and therefore he was obliged to perform heroic acts out of dread of death and torture. Furthermore, Romulus' greatest success was defeating the ruler of Alba, whereas Theseus saved Greece from severe horrors by slaying those monsters before those he rescued even learned who he was. Romulus could not be safe while Amulius was alive. Theseus battled these evil individuals for the sake of others, although having experienced no harm at their disposal, whilst Romulus was unconcerned with Amulius' power as long as it meant no damage to him.

Another considerable factor was their treatment of women. It is most convincing to argue that Romulus had a better relationship with women; despite abducting 800 Sabine women, he only maintained one for himself, Hersilia, and gave the rest to his best citizens. The women were well-cared for and loved. He linked the two races, and everyone remained honourably and contentedly for 50 years. The compassion, respect, and dignity with which he treated them demonstrated that his misguided brutality in abduction was the most admirable and prudent means of bringing the two nations together. The fact that there were no divorces in 230 years demonstrates the nobility, sincerity, and stability with which he filled the idea of marriage. The Athenians, on the other hand, got no union with any nation as a result of Theseus' marriage, but only conflicts and citizen deaths. Only through the charity of their foes and their own pleas did they escape the catastrophe that Paris had brought upon Troy. When Theseus raped Ariadne and a youthful Helen, Theseus was likewise motivated by lust. His failure to control his attraction to women caused him to be viewed as disrespectful and immoral.

In conclusion, Theseus performed better deeds, whereas Romulus had greater achievements.  This is justified by Romulus' obligation to do good and Theseus' genuine desire to be heroic and decent. Though Romulus accomplished much for Rome, it is more convincing that Theseus was the greater man. His accomplishments may have been fewer, but they were done with heart and regard for humanity.