For at least a thousand years Greek cities took part in religious activities outside their territory by sending sacred delegates to represent them. The delegates are usually called theōroi, literally 'observers', and a delegation made up of theōroi, or the action of taking part in one, is called theōriā. This is the first comprehensive study of theōroi and theōriā. It examines a number of key functions of theōroi and explains who served in this role and what their activities are likely to have been, both on the journey and at the sanctuary. Other chapters discuss the diplomatic functions of theōroi, and what their activities tell us about the origins of the notion of Greek identity and about religious networks. Chapters are also devoted to the reception of the notion of theōriā in Greek philosophy and literature. The book will be essential for all scholars and advanced students of ancient religion.
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1. Approaches to theōriā: preliminary definitions and issues; 2. Evidence; 3. An historical overview; 4. Festival theōriā; 5. Festival announcement and truce; 6. Oracles; 7. Conveying offerings; 8. Theōroi as magistrates; 9. Theōriā and viewing; 10. Participants; 11. The journey; 12. Performances at the sanctuary; 13. Civic theōriā: two case studies; 14. The theoric chorus; 15. Politics and diplomacy; 16. Hellenism, panhellenism and common sanctuaries; 17. Theoric networks over space and time; 18. The case of Athens; 19. Philosophy and theōriā; 20. Theōriā in Greek imagination; 21. Epilogue. The end of theōriā.
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The first comprehensive study of theōroi - sacred delegates sent by Greek city-states to represent them at common sanctuaries.
Product details
ISBN
9781107038226
Published
2013-12-19
Publisher
Cambridge University Press; Cambridge University Press
Weight
1160 gr
Height
252 mm
Width
180 mm
Thickness
35 mm
Age
U, P, 05, 06
Language
Product language
Engelsk
Format
Product format
Innbundet
Number of pages
552
Author