"The Rape of Lucrece" is a narrative poem by William Shakespeare, written in 1594. It tells the tragic story of Lucrece, a noblewoman in ancient Rome, who is raped by Tarquin, the son of the king. The poem explores themes of honor, shame, and the consequences of violence against women. After the assault, Lucrece is consumed by grief and ultimately takes her own life, believing it to be the only way to restore her honor. Her death incites a rebellion against the monarchy, leading to the establishment of the Roman Republic. The poem highlights the societal implications of personal trauma.