The story of Dido and Aeneas recalled to a Roman audience

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The story of Dido and Aeneas would resonate with a Roman audience on multiple levels: it could remind them of Cleopatra, another powerful and tragic queen involved with a Roman leader; it could reflect on the political nature of marriages in Rome, where alliances were often more important than love; and it could echo the long struggle against Carthage, of which Dido's city was a precursor, reminding them of the Punic Wars and the fight against Hannibal.

The Story of Dido and Aeneas Recalled to a Roman