Amata
Definition
Amata is a character in Virgil's Aeneid who is the wife of King Latinus and the mother of Lavinia. She opposes the marriage between Lavinia and Aeneas, leading to conflict and tragedy.
Analogy
Imagine Amata as a protective mother bear who fiercely guards her cub (Lavinia) from any potential suitors (like Aeneas). She will do anything to prevent them from being together, even if it means causing chaos.
Related terms
King Latinus: The husband of Amata and the king of Latium. He tries to maintain peace but is caught in the middle of the conflict between Amata and Aeneas.
Lavinia: The daughter of Amata and King Latinus. She becomes a pawn in the struggle for power between Aeneas and Turnus.
Aeneas: The Trojan hero who seeks to establish a new homeland in Italy. His relationship with Lavinia triggers the conflict with Amata.
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