Historical and Cultural Issues Present in the Myth of Semiramis According to Marcus Junianus Justinus
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.34019/2237-6151.2025.v22.48709Keywords:
Semiramis; Justinus; Sammuramat; myth; Rome.Abstract
The word "myth" is often understood as a synonym for "falsehood." However, in historical research, myth has much to reveal to the historian, as it can provide insights into historical figures who inspired the construction of a given myth, as well as into the political and social aspects underlying the formation of the mythical narrative. In this article, we will address the myth of Semiramis as presented in Epitoma Historiarum Philippicarum Pompei Trogi, by Marcus Junianus Justinus. More than a mere analysis of the myth, we aim to propose hypotheses regarding its historical and literary origins, as well as the reasons that led the author to portray Semiramis and her son Ninus in a negative and pejorative light. To achieve this, we will situate Justinus' writing within its historical context in order to better understand these developments.
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