Ancient epic literature tends to portray their protagonists as incomparable heroes of unparalleled strength and skills. However, Virgil’s “Aeneid” takes a different route, creating a character that matches Aeneas’ character remarkably, sharing a range of similarities in her choices. Due to the parallels in Aeneas and Dido’s fates, their willpower and independence, the two characters represent a perfect match for each other.
At first glance, the two characters are entirely different, starting from the fact that they belong to different sexes, and down to the range of power, Dido being a queen and, thus, having greater power.
However, on further assessment of the two, one will see that there are certain points of similarity between the two. For example, both show the skills of excellent leaders since Aeneas is capable of guiding his team, whereas Dido navigates the entire kingdom: “Phoenician Dido rules the growing state” (Virgil). Moreover, the resourcefulness, intellect, an ability to manage a crisis is what the two characters share since both have been in an exiles: “Myself distress’d, an exile, and unknown,” (Virgil). Showing that dido matches Aeneas in his skills and intelligence, Virgil creates a strong hint about the possibility of them building relationships as equals. Thus, the two characters share similar fates, which create premises for a strong rapport.
Sharing strong intelligence, the ability to make decisions at the times of a crisis, and having the leadership skills to guide others, Aeneas and Dido are depicted as a perfect match. The experiences that they share complete each other, creating the platform for building relationships and a profound understanding of each other. Therefore, Dido and Aeneas can be considered very similar despite the differences in their status and sex.
Work Cited
Virgil. “Aeneid.” Project Gutenberg, ca. 29-19 B.C. Web.