Approaching the subject of ancient Greek religion one encounters a paradox – simultaneously we know too little and too much. The Greeks have neither a word for religion in their vocabulary, nor possessed sacred books or religious texts, they neither formed clergy, nor appointed a person to exercise absolute religious authority. However, in Greek society the ubiquity and presence of their gods consumed the commoners, influenced the politicians, and inspired the artists. No aspect of Greek life can be approached without considering their religion. From the Bronze Age to late antiquity, the surviving materials provide scholars different aspects of the religion: allusions in literature, direct and indirect inscriptions from a myriad of places, and an abundance of physical remains. Yet the evidence does not coherently piece together a vivid, encompassing picture of the religious realities of any particular time and place in Greece.
In Ancient Greek Religion, Jon D. Mikalson aims to synthesis the elemental beliefs, the common practices, and the major deities worshiped by the Greeks. The book places an emphasis on religious life as experienced by Greek men and women. Mikalson provides a well-defined framework and focuses on key topics in nine thematic chapters: the epistemological basis and worship of Greek religion and sanctuaries; the nature of gods, heroes, and polytheism; cult myths; five major Greek cults; religion in the family and village; religion in the city-state; religion for the individual; the Hellenistic period; and the relation of Greek culture and religion. Alongside the text are ancient sources and a plethora of illustrations to help readers visualize religious life.
In the preface, Mikalson defines how he focused his topic. Firstly, he intends to provide an introduction to Greek religion for beginners; the book does not pretend to be an exhaustive study. Mikalson has an outstanding ability to engage the reader into his thoughts and arouse their interest. Often times throughout the book, the author encourages the reader to imagine what it must have been like to visit the religious sites or to be involved in the festivals. Primarily intended as an introduction for students and interested laymen, the style alone proves a big advantage. Series of maps, sketches, and photographs accompany the text which help personalize the topic and help the reader to imagine the realities of the region. The maps, drawings of sites, the photographs of location give important geographical context of the practices being described. Photographs of artifacts and extracts from other Greek authors provide the reader contemporary insights. In addition, an extensive 'further reading' section provided at the end of each chapter enhances the text and should satisfy the most critical reader. Mikalson also offers a proximate equivalent of Greek monetary sums in dollars. Though some scholars are extremely hesitant to convert monetary rates, it provides a much needed...
