Literature and Religion at Rome Cultures, Contexts, and Beliefs [Paperback]

A sophisticated and important short study of Roman religion.This book exploits recent reevaluations of Roman religion in order to argue in favour of taking the religious dimensions of Roman literature seriously as important cultural work in their own right. Instead of seeing Roman religious and literary activity as derivative and parasitic upon Greek originals, the book questions the romanticising biases of classical studies, and argues for the power and creativity of the Romans in their engagements with Greek culture.This book exploits recent reevaluations of Roman religion in order to argue in favour of taking the religious dimensions of Roman literature seriously as important cultural work in their own right. Instead of seeing Roman religious and literary activity as derivative and parasitic upon Greek originals, the book questions the romanticising biases of classical studies, and argues for the power and creativity of the Romans in their engagements with Greek culture.This book exploits recent reevaluations of Roman religion in order to argue in favor of taking the religious dimensions of Roman literature seriously, as important cultural work in their own right. Instead of seeing Roman religious and literary activity as derivative and parasitic upon Greek originals, the book questions the romanticizing biases of classical studies, and argues for the power and creativity of the Romans in their engagements with Greek culture.Preface; Introduction; 1. Belief; 2. Myth; 3. Divinity; 4. Ritual; 5. Epilogue: knowledge; Bibliography; Index. A very important and thoughtful book, well worth the close reading it requires. Religious Studies Review ...the book includes material of interest to classicists and to those interested in comparative literature and religion alike. This book is a useful presentation of an important topic, reflective, meticulously documented and well worth acquiring.... Mihaela F. Harmos, Literary Research