Fortuna: The Lady Luck in Roman Mythology
“Fortis fortuna adiuvat”, as they used to say in the days of the Roman Empire; which translated into today’s phraseology means “fortune favours the bold!”. Fortuna, was equivalent to the Greek goddess Tyche, she was also the goddess of fortune and luck in Roman religion. Fortuna was deemed the original “Lady Luck” who might bring good luck or bad luck and came to represent life's capriciousness: it’s thought that her father was Jupiter — the King of the gods.
Who is the Roman Goddess Fortuna?
Fortuna, the Roman goddess of fortune, is a fascinating mythological figure whose name still echoes today when we say, “Lady Luck is on my side.” Her identity was tied to the shifting tides of fate, influencing everything from battlefield outcomes to the destiny of empires. Known for her fickle nature, she symbolized the unpredictable turns of life — a reminder that nothing is ever guaranteed.
Servius Tullius and the Temple of Fortuna
The story goes that Fortuna had a mystical bond with Servius Tullius, Rome’s sixth king, whose reign was marked by extraordinary luck. Many believed this was a direct result of her divine favour. It’s no wonder she attracted a massive following. She was soon honoured with her own temples and a sacred precinct in ancient Rome, which became a favoured destination for emperors and mystical seekers searching for answers.
The two earliest temples mentioned in Roman Calendars were outside the city, on the right bank of the Tiber. The first temple dedicated to Fors was attributed to Servius Tullius, while the second is known to have been built in 293 BC as the fulfilment of a Roman promise made during later Etruscan wars.
Virtus and the Wheel of Fortune
Her identity as the embodiment of chance events was closely tied to “virtus”, which represents strength of character. Public officials who lacked such virtues invited ill-fortune on themselves and Rome. She was also linked inextricably to her ownership of the “wheel of fortune,” which she spins at random, changing the positions of those on the wheel — some endure adversity, whilst others gain windfalls!
Don’t Take Fortuna for Granted
However, there is just one caveat — Fortuna — “Lady Luck” is notoriously fickle. She doesn’t like being taken for granted, neither should you assume that she’ll always be there just when you need her most! If she does decide to make an entrance, then thank her profusely.
She favours those who act with courage and humility — but just as quickly, she may turn her wheel and vanish without a trace. In the game of fate, reverence for the unpredictable power of the goddess is the only constant.
Lady Luck in Modern Times
Today, Lady Luck lives on not just in mythology, but in everyday culture — especially in places where chance reigns supreme. In the world of gambling, she is an iconic figure, frequently invoked by players hoping to win big at online raffles, slots, roulette tables or poker tournaments. From neon-lit casinos in Las Vegas to online platforms worldwide, Lady Luck is constantly called upon to tip the odds. Her name also appears in countless songs, films and pop culture references, symbolising both hope and unpredictability. Whether whispered before a bet or belted out in a chorus, she remains a powerful emblem of our timeless fascination with risk, reward and the mysterious forces of fate.