Dictionary of Phrase and Fable—T

Tarpeian Rock

So called from Tarpeia, a vestal virgin, the daughter of Spurius Tarpeius, governor of the citadel on the Capitoline Hill. Tarpeia agreed to open the gates to the Sabines if they would give her “what they wore on their arms” (meaning their bracelets). The Sabines, “keeping their promise to the ear,” crushed her to death with their shields, and she was buried in that part of the hill called the Tarpeian Rock. Subsequently, traitors were cast down this rock and so killed.

“Bear him to the rock Tarpeian, and from thence Into destruction cast him.” Shakespeare: Coriolanus, iii. 1

Source: Dictionary of Phrase and Fable, E. Cobham Brewer, 1894
Tarred
Tarpaulins
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  • Tarpeia - Tarpeia Tarpeia , in Roman legend, a Roman woman who betrayed her city to the Sabines for what they ...
  • Capitoline Hill - Capitoline Hill Capitoline Hill or Capitol,highest of the seven hills of ancient Rome, historic and ...
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