Gaius Mucius Scaevola facts for kids

Gaius Mucius Cordus, often known by his later nickname Scaevola, was a brave young man from Ancient Rome. He is famous for his incredible courage, and his story might even be a legend. The name Scaevola means "left-handed," a nickname he earned because of his bravery.

In 508 BC, Rome was at war with the city of Clusium. The king of Clusium, Lars Porsena, had surrounded Rome with his army. This was a very dangerous time for the Romans.

A Secret Mission

Gaius Mucius Cordus, with the permission of the Roman Senate, decided to do something incredibly daring. He snuck into the Etruscan army's camp. His goal was to kill King Porsena and end the siege.

It was payday for the soldiers, and there were two men dressed similarly on a raised platform. One was the king, and the other was his scribe. Mucius made a mistake and killed the scribe instead of King Porsena.

A Show of Bravery

After being captured, Mucius was brought before King Porsena. He bravely declared, "I am Gaius Mucius, a citizen of Rome. I came here as an enemy to kill my enemy. I am ready to die just as I was ready to kill." He also told Porsena that he was just the first of 300 young Romans who had volunteered to try and kill the king.

Mucius then said, "Watch, so you know how little a man's body means to those who seek great glory." He then put his right hand into a fire that was burning nearby. He held it there without showing any sign of pain. This amazing act of courage shocked King Porsena.

The Name Scaevola

Because of this incredible display, Mucius earned the nickname Scaevola, meaning "left-handed." This was because his right hand was burned. King Porsena was so impressed by Mucius's bravery that he set him free. "Go back," Porsena said, "since you do more harm to yourself than to me." At the same time, Porsena sent messengers to Rome to offer peace.

A Hero's Reward

When Mucius returned to Rome, he was given farming land as a reward. This land was on the right bank of the Tiber River. It later became known as the Mucia Prata, or "Mucian Meadows."

See also

• Cloelia
• Et facere et pati fortia Romanum est
• Mucia (gens)
• Týr

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