Greek Religion Archaic and Classical

by Burkert, Walter; Raffan, John

• ISBN13: 9780631156246
• ISBN10: 0631156240
• eBook ISBN(s): 9781118724996
• Edition: 1st
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 1991-01-08
• Publisher: Wiley-Blackwell

About This Book

Greek Religion: Archaic and Classical

ISBN: 9780631156246

Greek Religion: Archaic and Classical is a seminal work in the field of classical studies, written by renowned scholar Walter Burkert. This comprehensive textbook has been a cornerstone for understanding ancient Greek religion since its publication in 1991. It's a must-read for students, scholars, and anyone interested in the rich cultural heritage of ancient Greece.

Who Uses It?

Primarily, this book is used by students and educators in classical studies, anthropology, and religious studies at the college and university levels. It's also a valuable resource for anyone interested in understanding the intricacies of ancient Greek religion, including historians, archaeologists, and cultural enthusiasts.

History and Editions

The book has been widely acclaimed for its depth and breadth of coverage. The publication of an English version, incorporating new material and serving as a second edition, has solidified its standing as a classic in the field. This edition is a marvel of professional scholarship, packed with learning but also rich in ideas and connections of every sort.

Author and Other Works

Walter Burkert is a distinguished scholar known for his extensive contributions to the field of classical studies. His work on Greek mythology and religion is unparalleled, and this book is one of his most notable achievements. Burkert's writing style is characterized by his meticulous research and ability to present complex concepts in a clear and engaging manner. Other notable works by Burkert include "The Orientalizing Revolution: Near Eastern Influence on Greek Culture in the Early Archaic Age" and "Babylon—Mesopotamia and the Bible."

Key Features

• Comprehensive Coverage: The book provides an exhaustive exploration of Greek religion from its archaic to classical periods, covering various aspects such as cult practices, mythological narratives, and ritualistic ceremonies.
• Scholarly Depth: Burkert's work is renowned for its scholarly rigor and depth, making it an essential resource for advanced studies in classical religion.
• Historical Context: The book situates Greek religion within its historical context, offering insights into the cultural and social dynamics of ancient Greece.

Detailed Information

ISBNs and Formats

• Paperback: ISBN-13: 9780631156246
• E-Book: Available through various online retailers, including Wiley-Blackwell and eCampus.com

Publication Details

• Publisher: Wiley-Blackwell
• Publication Date: January 1991
• Number of Pages: 512 pages
• Language: English
• Item Weight: 1.4 lbs (0.64 kg)
• Dimensions: 9 x 6 x 0.9 in (22.86 x 15.24 x 2.29 cm)

Other Editions and Formats

While there are no other editions of this specific book, it is often referenced alongside other works by Walter Burkert. For those interested in exploring more of his writings, consider:

• The Orientalizing Revolution: Near Eastern Influence on Greek Culture in the Early Archaic Age (ISBN: 978-0631179694)
• Babylon—Mesopotamia and the Bible (ISBN: 978-0631179694)

These works offer complementary insights into the broader cultural and historical contexts of ancient civilizations.

This detailed information section provides a quick reference for all the available formats and sources for Greek Religion: Archaic and Classical, making it easier to find and access the book in the preferred format.

Author Biography

Walter Burkert was a German scholar of Greek mythology and cult. A professor of classics at the University of Zurich, Switzerland, he taught in the UK and the US. John Raffan is the author of Greek Religion: Archaic and Classical, published by Wiley.

Table of Contents

Introduction.A Survey of Scholarship.The Sources.The Scope of the Study.Part I: Prehistory and the Minoan-Mycenaean Age.2. The Neolithic and Early Bronze Age.3. Indo-European.4. The Minoan-Mycenaean Religion.5. The Dark Ages and the Problem of Continuity.Part II: Ritual and Sanctuary.6. 'Working Sacred Things: Animal Sacrifice.7. Gift Offerings and Libation.8. Prayer.9. Purification.10. The Sanctuary.11. Priests.12. The Festival.13. Ecstasy and Divination.Part III: The Gods.14. The Spell of Homer.15. Individual Gods.16. The Remainder of the Pantheon.17. The Special Character of Greek Anthropomorphism.Part IV: The Dead, Heroes, and Chthonic Gods.18. Burial and the Cult of the Dead.19. Afterlife Mythology.20. Olympian and Chthonic.21. The Heroes.22. Figures Who Cross the Chthonic-Olympian Boundary.Part V: Polis and Polytheism.23. Thought Patterns in Greek Polytheism.24. The Rhythm of the Festivals.25. Social Functions of Cult.26. Piety in the Mirror of Greek Language.Part VI: Mysteries and Asceticism.27. Mystery Sanctuaries.28. Bacchica and Orphica.29. Bios.Part VII: Philosophical Religion.30. The New Foundation: Being and the Divine.31. The Crisis: Sophists and Atheists.32. The Deliverance: Cosmic Religion and Metaphysics.33. Philosophical Religion and Polis Religion: Plato's Laws.Notes.Bibliography.Index of Greek Words.Index.