212: Ancient Legends of the Divine Twins

The ancient figures of the “Divine Twins” are globally recognizable. Among the many associations attached to the Divine Twins is the custom of dual kingship, the warrior king and the priestly king, where one king would go on campaigns and the other would remain to protect and reassure the tribe. Mentions of this custom was made as early as accounts by ancient Greek historian Tacitus (c. 56 – c. 120 CE) and continued well into the Migration Age where the twin kings became popular legendary figures.

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Learn more about:

The Horse, the Snake and the Dog: The Three Heads of the Real Queen of the Night
(for more on the role of the Divine Twin in the rule of Emperor Tiberius) A Story of Castor, the Refreshingly Quiet and Surprisingly Competent Politician of Ancient Rome
(for a bit more on the role of the Ashvin Twin in the Mahabarata Epic) One Perfect Man = Five Imperfect Demigods
Death, Courage and Sacrifices upon the Stars: Legends Behind the Zodiacs