At the end of Book III of Virgil's Aeneid, the beloved member of Aeneas' company who dies is Anchises, Aeneas' father.
The Loss of Anchises
Anchises was not only Aeneas' father but also a revered elder and a guiding figure throughout the Trojans' arduous journey after the fall of Troy. He represented Aeneas' connection to his lineage, his past, and the divine will, having previously suffered paralysis for boasting about his affair with Venus, Aeneas' mother. Despite his physical frailty, Anchises remained a source of wisdom and strength for the company.
His death occurs tragically and unexpectedly at Drepanum in Sicily, marking a significant turning point in Aeneas' voyage.
A Pivotal Departure
The death of Anchises at the close of Book III is a profound event that mirrors other significant losses experienced by Aeneas at the conclusion of key sections of his epic journey. These deaths often serve to propel Aeneas forward, shaping his destiny and helping him to arrive safely in Latium, the destined land for his new Troy.
- Book II: The tragic loss of Creusa, Aeneas' first wife, occurs in the final moments as Troy falls.
- Book III: The passing of Anchises signifies Aeneas' emergence as the sole leader, now fully responsible for his people's future.
- Book IV: The final scene details the devastating suicide of Dido, a queen Aeneas leaves behind to fulfill his divine mission.
Each of these deaths, including Anchises', underscores the personal sacrifices Aeneas must endure on his path to founding Rome.
Anchises' Enduring Legacy
Though he dies at the end of Book III, Anchises' influence on Aeneas does not cease. His spirit continues to guide his son, most notably when Aeneas descends into the Underworld in Book VI. There, Anchises reveals the future glories of Rome and the long line of Roman heroes who will descend from Aeneas, providing crucial motivation and a clear vision for Aeneas' mission. His death, therefore, is not merely an ending but a catalyst for Aeneas' growth and ultimate fulfillment of his destiny.
