Greek mythology and religion

Author: Jean-Pierre Vernant
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2001-09-01
Features: Ancient Greek religion did not have a unique god, nor dedicated clergy, nor a Bible, nor promises of eternal life. It presented to the world myths, as well as the charm and worship of literary works like poetry and sculpture. Greek religious figures were involved in city-states, giving Greek politics a religious hue; Greek religion had no doctrines, leaving abstract concepts like the soul, nature, and fate—characteristic religious ideas—to the realm of philosophy. Chapters such as "The World of the Gods," "The Religion of the Citizens," and "From Man to God" discuss typical issues in Greek studies and religious mythology, including the images of the Greek gods, mortality and immortality, the relationship between gods and heroes, and sacred animals and gods.