Roman heroism
Horatius at the Bridge: Roman Legend and Heroic Defense
Horatius at the Bridge recounts the celebrated defense of Rome’s Pons Sublicius, when Publius Horatius Cocles and two companions resisted Lars Porsena’s advancing Etruscan forces long enough for the Romans to destroy the crossing. Blending history and legend, the episode reveals how a single act of sacrifice became a durable Roman model of courage, civic duty, and patriotic memory.
Mucius Scaevola and the Burning Hand: Roman Legend
Mucius Scaevola and the Burning Hand recounts the legendary Roman nobleman who infiltrated the camp of Lars Porsenna, failed in his assassination attempt, and then proved his resolve by holding his right hand in fire without crying out. Blending history and moral exemplum, the story explains the origin of the name Scaevola and reveals why Romans celebrated it as a lasting symbol of courage, patriotism, and self-command.
