The second part of chapter 56 is indeed required reading in Latin.

As Tarquin busies himself with public works in Rome, an unpleasant omen emerges...

Task 1: now that you have met Lucius Junius Brutus, write down your first impressions of him. The quotes around his picture are there to get you thinking.

Task 2: return to the family tree and add anything we have learnt about the characters during this change of scene.

When you have finished translating and discussing this passage, you should be able to answer the following:

1. anguis ex … implevit curis. How does Tarquin’s reaction differ from the rest of the palace? What exactly is the distinction between these reactions?

2. Does Tarquin interpret this omen as a ‘public’ or a ‘domestic’ one? Why might both interpretations be valid?

3. What grievance does Brutus have with King Tarquinius?

4. List all the ways Brutus conceals his true intentions in the rest of this passage.

5. How does Livy suggest that the gods are on Brutus’ side?