Historiae Romanorum

Servius Tullius

Born a slave, he was the sixth legendary king of Rome (579-534 BC)

During the reign of Tarquinius Priscus, an unusual event took place at the palace.  While a little slave boy named Servius Tullius was sleeping, his head caught on fire.  Everyone watched the flames.  Amazingly, the little boy continued to sleep.  Another slave fetched water and was about to put them out, when his wife Tanaquil commanded him to stop.  After a few minutes, the child woke up and the flames went out.  Tanaquil told her husband that the flames were a sign that this slave boy was special.  From then on, Servius Tullius was raised by Tarquin as if he were his own son.  Tarquin eventually married his daughter to him.

Upon the death of Tarquin, Servius Tullius assumed the throne, with the help of Tanaquil.  He was a successful ruler, but could never appease the two young sons of Tarquin.

Servius Tullius' reign is characterized by structuring of the Roman classes.  What Numa had done for Roman religion, Servius did for Roman society.

He was eventually killed by Tarquinius Superbus

For more on Servius Tullius, click here.

Source(s):

1. Livy.  Ab Urbe Condita.

This page was last updated on July 21, 2004.