Poem Analysis - Romulus And Remus

Introduction: A Ruthless Foundation

Rudyard Kipling's "Romulus and Remus" presents a stark and unsentimental retelling of the legendary founding of Rome. The poem swiftly moves from a seemingly casual beginning to a brutal act of fratricide, driven by a vision of future greatness. The tone is initially detached and almost nonchalant, quickly shifting to one of grim determination and ultimately, a resigned pragmatism. The poem lacks the romanticism often associated with founding myths, focusing instead on the cold necessity of power and the sacrifices required to achieve it.

The Weight of Destiny

While a specific historical context isn't directly addressed, the poem reflects a broader theme often found in Kipling's work: the burden and responsibility of empire. Kipling, writing during the height of the British Empire, often explored the difficult choices and moral compromises that accompanied the pursuit of power and civilization. "Romulus and Remus" can be seen as a microcosm of this larger theme, where the foundation of a great civilization requires a ruthless act and a suppression of personal sentiment. The poem subtly implies that greatness is not easily achieved and comes at a price.

Power, Vision, and Sacrifice

One of the primary themes is the relationship between power and vision. Romulus's act is not portrayed as simple sibling rivalry but as a conscious decision based on a perceived threat to a grander future. The poem suggests that the capacity to foresee the potential for greatness is intrinsically linked to the willingness to do whatever is necessary to protect that vision. Another theme is sacrifice for the sake of progress. Remus's death isn't just a crime; it's presented as a sacrifice, necessary to secure the future glories of Rome. The poem seems to suggest that progress often demands sacrifices, blurring the lines between right and wrong. Finally, the theme of the cost of ambition underscores the narrative. The poem reveals that the establishment of power and civilization is not merely an act of building and progress, but also one of destruction and loss. Romulus is forever marked by his deed.

Mud, Walls, and Prophetic Violence

The image of "uninspired mud" is a recurring symbol that represents the humble and unprepossessing beginnings of Rome. The wall, initially a simple barrier against the "Tiber flood," becomes a symbol of civilization, order, and the boundaries that define a society. Remus's act of leaping over the wall symbolizes a challenge to that order, a disruption that Romulus perceives as a threat to the very foundation of his vision. The "swift blow" that ends Remus's life is not just an act of violence; it's a prophetic act, a foreshadowing of the ruthlessness and ambition that will characterize Rome's rise to power. Is the 'uninspired mud' also implying that all greatness has a tainted origin?

Conclusion: The Unromantic Foundation

"Romulus and Remus" is a concise and unsettling exploration of the darker aspects of civilization's origins. Kipling avoids glorifying the founding myth, instead presenting a stark portrayal of ambition, sacrifice, and the brutal choices required to build an empire. The poem suggests that the foundations of greatness are often stained with violence and that the pursuit of power demands a willingness to compromise morality. Ultimately, the poem leaves the reader with a sense of unease, prompting reflection on the true cost of civilization and the complex legacy of its founders.