Tarquinius Superbus is a Latin name that refers to the seventh and final king of ancient Rome. The name is spelled as /tɑrˈkwɪniəs ˈsuːpərbəs/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The initial "T" is pronounced as in "taco," followed by a short "a" sound as in "cat." The "q" is pronounced like a "k." The "i" is pronounced with a long "e" sound, followed by a short "u" sound. "Superbus" is pronounced with a long "u" sound, followed by a short "o" sound.
Tarquinius Superbus, often referred to as Tarquin the Proud, was the seventh and last legendary King of Rome, according to ancient Roman tradition. He is believed to have reigned from 535 to 509 BCE. Tarquinius Superbus was the son of Tarquinius Priscus, the fifth King of Rome, and his mother was Tanaquil.
The epithet "Superbus" means "the Proud" in Latin, reflecting his arrogant and despotic nature. Tarquinius Superbus is notorious for his oppressive rule and disregard for the Roman people and their customs. His reign was marked by excessive violence, corruption, and cruel acts, which ultimately led to his overthrow and the establishment of the Roman Republic.
Tarquinius Superbus is associated with the construction of several significant architectural projects, including the Temple of Jupiter Optimus Maximus on Capitoline Hill and the Circus Maximus, a large stadium used for chariot races and other public spectacles.
The story of Tarquinius Superbus and his overthrow is primarily chronicled in ancient Roman literature, especially in works such as Livy's Ab Urbe Condita and Dionysius of Halicarnassus' Roman Antiquities. While his historical existence is debated among historians, Tarquinius Superbus remains a prominent figure in Roman mythology and the early Roman historical narrative, symbolizing tyranny and the transition from monarchy to republic.
The word "Tarquinius Superbus" has its etymology rooted in ancient Latin and Roman history.
"Tarquinius" is the nomen or gens (family name) of a prominent family in ancient Rome known as the Tarquins. This name is believed to have Etruscan origins, indicating that the Tarquins may have originally migrated to Rome from Etruria, an ancient region in Italy.
"Superbus" is a Latin adjective meaning "proud", "arrogant", or "haughty". In the context of "Tarquinius Superbus", it is used as a cognomen or epithet, distinguishing Tarquinius as the last king of Rome.
"Superbus" refers to the tyrannical and despotic rule of Tarquinius, as he was known for his oppressive and ruthless control over the Roman population.