What was the purpose of the Twelve Tables in ancient Rome?

The Twelve Tables were a pivotal development in ancient Roman society as they served to codify Roman laws. Created around 450 BCE, these tablets were the first attempt to create a written legal code that was accessible to all citizens. Before their establishment, laws were primarily communicated through oral tradition, which often led to inconsistencies and confusion.

The creation of the Twelve Tables aimed to provide a clear and transparent set of laws that could be referred to by all members of society, thereby reducing the potential for arbitrary judgment by magistrates. This codification was significant because it laid the foundation for the concept of legal rights and obligations in Roman law, influencing not only the Roman legal system but also the development of legal systems in many subsequent cultures.

The other options do not accurately reflect the primary purpose of the Twelve Tables. They were not intended to serve as a narrative of Roman gods or record mythological tales, nor were they created to outline military strategies. Instead, their focus was strictly on establishing lawful guidelines that governed various aspects of daily life and societal conduct in Rome.