Following the destruction of Troy, the hero Aeneas must navigate divine wrath and mortal peril to fulfill his destiny as the founder of the Roman race. Driven by the command of the gods, Aeneas leads a band of survivors across the Mediterranean, facing environmental hazards and political opposition from hostile forces. His objective is to reach the Italian peninsula and establish a new home, a task that requires him to balance personal desire with the heavy burden of duty. The narrative employs a grand, elevated style, utilizing dactylic hexameter to recount the hero's trials, including his encounters with mythological creatures and his complex relationship with Queen Dido. The structure follows a non-linear progression, incorporating flashbacks and prophetic visions to connect the fall of Troy to the future glory of Rome.

Discussion often centers on the moral complexity of Aeneas, as readers frequently debate whether his actions represent noble sacrifice or cold-hearted abandonment. Critics highlight the technical precision of the verse and the effectiveness of the poem in establishing a national identity for the Roman Empire. Many readers note the emotional weight of the Dido episode, which serves as a significant counterpoint to the hero's stoic mission. The work remains a primary subject of study for its influence on Western literature and its sophisticated use of mythological allusion. Scholars frequently emphasize how the text functions both as a narrative of individual struggle and a foundational document for imperial ideology.