How did the geography of the italian peninsula influence the development of the roman empire?

It basically forced the Roman empire to build up a strong navy if they ever wanted to conquer different regions fast enough. Because of thier specific environment, they were limited in the way through which they could spread. Because of this, the only other option was spreading through water. 

Include the poem for more info but this is what i know about the goddess athena athena is a greek goddess of war and sprang from zeus head full grown in a full set of battle armor.