REL 266 - Topics: Religion in Greco-Roman World (1)

This course will survey the ancient literature, archaeological remains, and ritual practices prevalent in the ancient Mediterranean world during the Roman Empire. Topics include: the differences between modern and ancient conceptions of “religion,” sacrifice and temple cults, daily religious life, magic and divinization, the intersection of religion with politics and empire building, philosophical interpretations of classical mythology and ethics, mystery cults, and how Judaism and Christianity were significantly shaped during this period.
(Humanities)