Aeneas is a legendary figure in ancient Roman mythology and literature. He is a central character in the epic poem "The Aeneid," written by the Roman poet Virgil. Aeneas is depicted as a Trojan hero and the son of Anchises and the goddess Venus (Aphrodite in Greek mythology).
In "The Aeneid," Aeneas is portrayed as a courageous and honorable warrior who survived the fall of Troy during the Trojan War. He embarks on a long and arduous journey, guided by divine destiny, to find a new homeland for his displaced people. This journey leads him to various adventures, including encounters with gods and mythical creatures.
Aeneas is often considered a symbol of Roman virtue and piety. His quest to establish the foundations of what would become Rome is a central theme in Roman mythology and history. According to legend, he is an ancestor of Romulus and Remus, the legendary founders of Rome. The story of Aeneas played a significant role in shaping the cultural and historical identity of ancient Rome.