Religious Deviance in the Roman World: Superstition or Individuality?

Joerg Rupke (Universitat Erfurt, Germany)

Religious Deviance in the Roman World: Superstition or Individuality?
Format
Hardback
Publisher
Cambridge University Press
Country
United Kingdom
Published
16 May 2016
Pages
159
ISBN
9781107090521

Religious Deviance in the Roman World: Superstition or Individuality?

Joerg Rupke (Universitat Erfurt, Germany)

Religious individuality is not restricted to modernity. This book offers a new reading of the ancient sources in order to find indications for the spectrum of religious practices and intensified forms of such practices only occasionally denounced as ‘superstition’. Authors from Cicero in the first century BC to the law codes of the fourth century AD share the assumption that authentic and binding communication between individuals and gods is possible and widespread, even if problematic in the case of divination or the confrontation with images of the divine. A change in practices and assumptions throughout the imperial period becomes visible. It might be characterised as ‘individualisation’ and informed the Roman law of religions. The basic constellation - to give freedom of religion and to regulate religion at the same time - resonates even into modern bodies of law and is important for juridical conflicts today.

This item is not currently in-stock. It can be ordered online and is expected to ship in approx 4 weeks

Our stock data is updated periodically, and availability may change throughout the day for in-demand items. Please call the relevant shop for the most current stock information. Prices are subject to change without notice.

Sign in or become a Readings Member to add this title to a wishlist.