Augurs

• What was the main job of an augur?

  Taking the auspices
• What did 'taking the auspices' involve?

  Reading signs from birds and animals
• In what contexts were auspices commonly taken?

  Before battles, marriages, or transactions
• Who recounted the founding of Rome in 20 BC?

  Livy
• What issue does the story of Romulus and Remus highlight?

  The difficulties in interpreting signs
• Why did Romulus and Remus decide to take auspices?

  To help choose the location for their city
• How did Romulus and Remus decide who would send the augury?

  The one who protected the chosen place
• Which location did Romulus choose for observing the augury?

  The Palatine
• Which location did Remus choose for observing the augury?

  The Aventine
• What are the steps involved in taking auspices?

  • Observe the flight of birds
  • Analyze animal behavior
  • Interpret the direction of thunder
• What were the implications of the augury for Romulus and Remus's city?

  • Determined the city's name
  • Decided who would govern the city