Chaos, Cosmos and Creation in Early Greek Theogonies: An Ontological Exploration

This book explores three competing cosmologies of the early Greek world, arguing that they offer different answers to the debate on what it is to be human. It combines approaches from classical studies, anthropology, and philosophy to outline three key sets of ontological assumptions - analogism, pantheism, and naturalism - found in early Greek literature and explores how these assumptions result in contrasting attitudes to rituals such as prayer and sacrifice.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 24 August 2023
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

Cosmological narratives, such as the creation story in the Book of Genesis or the modern Big Bang theory, are commonly perceived as explanations of the universe's origin. However, cosmologies encompass a much broader scope. In fact, most ancient and modern cosmologies delve into not only the creation of the world but also the intricate relationship between humans and their environment, as well as the delicate boundary that distinguishes humans from gods and animals. By drawing upon approaches from classical studies, anthropology, and philosophy, this book examines three competing cosmologies of the early Greek world: Hesiod's Theogony, the Orphic Derveni Theogony, and Protagoras's creation myth in Plato's renowned dialogue.

While all three cosmologies share common elements and characters, Olaf Almqvist argues that they provide distinct perspectives on the essence of humanity. By engaging closely with the ontological turn in anthropology, particularly the work of Philippe Descola, this book outlines three fundamental sets of ontological assumptions found in early Greek literature: analogism, pantheism, and naturalism. It then explores how these competing ontological assumptions shape contrasting attitudes toward rituals such as prayer and sacrifice.

In the first cosmology examined, Hesiod's Theogony, the author presents a hierarchical worldview in which the gods are placed at the top, followed by humans, animals, and then the earth and its elements. This cosmology emphasizes the divine nature of the gods and their control over the natural world. It also highlights the importance of human sacrifice and the need for humans to obey the gods' commands.

The Orphic Derveni Theogony, on the other hand, presents a more mystical and spiritual perspective. It emphasizes the unity of all things and the interconnectedness of the universe. The Orphics believed in the reincarnation of the soul and the possibility of achieving spiritual enlightenment through ritual practices and meditation.

Finally, Protagoras's creation myth in Plato's dialogue presents a more humanistic and rationalistic view. Protagoras suggests that the gods are merely human-like creatures who created the universe out of their own imagination. He emphasizes the importance of human reason and the ability of humans to shape their own destiny.

Through its comprehensive analysis of these three cosmologies, this book offers valuable insights into the complex relationship between humans and their environment, as well as the diverse perspectives on the nature of the universe. It sheds light on the enduring debate on what it means to be human and highlights the importance of considering different cosmological assumptions when exploring our place in the world.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350221949