Cult of Castor and Pollux in Ancient Rome: Myth, Ritual, and Society

The Dioscuri first appeared at the Battle of Lake Regillus in 496 BC to save the new Republic. They received a temple in the Forum and took on new responsibilities as the needs of the society evolved. Amber Gartrell explores the evolution of the cult, focusing on four key aspects: the gods' two temples in Rome, their epiphanies, their protection of varied groups, and their role as divine parallels for imperial heirs.

Format: Hardback
Length: 275 pages
Publication date: 29 April 2021
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

The Dioscuri, divine twins born of the Titan Cronus and the goddess Rhea, made their grand entrance onto the stage of history at the Battle of Lake Regillus in 496 BC. Their arrival was a momentous occasion, as they came to the rescue of the newly formed Roman Republic, a fledgling nation threatened by the forces of chaos and disorder. In recognition of their heroic deeds, the gods were granted a magnificent temple in the Forum, a sacred space where they would continue to play a vital role in the lives of the Roman people for centuries to come.

As the Roman society evolved and new challenges emerged, the Dioscuri took on new responsibilities and roles. They became the protectors of elite horsemen, boxers, and sailors, ensuring their safety and success in the arenas of battle and the open seas. Moreover, they assumed the role of guarantors of the Republic's continuation, a duty that was both sacred and perilous. The Dioscuri were not just mere guardians, however; they also served as models for potential future emperors. Their wisdom, strength, and charisma made them ideal role models for those who sought to rule the Roman Empire.

Over the course of centuries, the cult of the Dioscuri underwent many changes and transformations. Their temples in Rome, once grand and majestic, became dilapidated and neglected, a testament to the changing fortunes of the Roman Empire. However, even in the face of adversity, the Dioscuri remained a source of inspiration and devotion for the Roman people. Their stories were retold and their statues were venerated, reminding the people of the values and virtues that had shaped their nation.

In this captivating book, Amber Gartrell delves into the evolution of the cult of the Dioscuri. Drawing on a range of methodological approaches and a vast array of ancient evidence, she explores four key aspects: the two temples dedicated to the Dioscuri in Rome, their epiphanies, their protection of various groups within Roman society, and their role as divine parallels for imperial heirs. Through her meticulous research and insightful analysis, Gartrell sheds light on the intricate interplay between religion, politics, and society in ancient Rome. She reveals how the Dioscuri, as divine beings, were not just symbols of power and authority but also agents of change and transformation.

The Dioscuri, divine twins born of the Titan Cronus and the goddess Rhea, made their grand entrance onto the stage of history at the Battle of Lake Regillus in 496 BC. Their arrival was a momentous occasion, as they came to the rescue of the newly formed Roman Republic, a fledgling nation threatened by the forces of chaos and disorder. In recognition of their heroic deeds, the gods were granted a magnificent temple in the Forum, a sacred space where they would continue to play a vital role in the lives of the Roman people for centuries to come.

As the Roman society evolved and new challenges emerged, the Dioscuri took on new responsibilities and roles. They became the protectors of elite horsemen, boxers, and sailors, ensuring their safety and success in the arenas of battle and the open seas. Moreover, they assumed the role of guarantors of the Republic's continuation, a duty that was both sacred and perilous. The Dioscuri were not just mere guardians, however; they also served as models for potential future emperors. Their wisdom, strength, and charisma made them ideal role models for those who sought to rule the Roman Empire.

Over the course of centuries, the cult of the Dioscuri underwent many changes and transformations. Their temples in Rome, once grand and majestic, became dilapidated and neglected, a testament to the changing fortunes of the Roman Empire. However, even in the face of adversity, the Dioscuri remained a source of inspiration and devotion for the Roman people. Their stories were retold and their statues were venerated, reminding the people of the values and virtues that had shaped their nation.

In this captivating book, Amber Gartrell delves into the evolution of the cult of the Dioscuri. Drawing on a range of methodological approaches and a vast array of ancient evidence, she explores four key aspects: the two temples dedicated to the Dioscuri in Rome, their epiphanies, their protection of various groups within Roman society, and their role as divine parallels for imperial heirs. Through her meticulous research and insightful analysis, Gartrell sheds light on the intricate interplay between religion, politics, and society in ancient Rome. She reveals how the Dioscuri, as divine beings, were not just symbols of power and authority but also agents of change and transformation.

The Dioscuri, divine twins born of the Titan Cronus and the goddess Rhea, made their grand entrance onto the stage of history at the Battle of Lake Regillus in 496 BC. Their arrival was a momentous occasion, as they came to the rescue of the newly formed Roman Republic, a fledgling nation threatened by the forces of chaos and disorder. In recognition of their heroic deeds, the gods were granted a magnificent temple in the Forum, a sacred space where they would continue to play a vital role in the lives of the Roman people for centuries to come.

As the Roman society evolved and new challenges emerged, the Dioscuri took on new responsibilities and roles. They became the protectors of elite horsemen, boxers, and sailors, ensuring their safety and success in the arenas of battle and the open seas. Moreover, they assumed the role of guarantors of the Republic's continuation, a duty that was both sacred and perilous. The Dioscuri were not just mere guardians, however; they also served as models for potential future emperors. Their wisdom, strength, and charisma made them ideal role models for those who sought to rule the Roman Empire.

Over the course of centuries, the cult of the Dioscuri underwent many changes and transformations. Their temples in Rome, once grand and majestic, became dilapidated and neglected, a testament to the changing fortunes of the Roman Empire. However, even in the face of adversity, the Dioscuri remained a source of inspiration and devotion for the Roman people. Their stories were retold and their statues were venerated, reminding the people of the values and virtues that had shaped their nation.

In this captivating book, Amber Gartrell delves into the evolution of the cult of the Dioscuri. Drawing on a range of methodological approaches and a vast array of ancient evidence, she explores four key aspects: the two temples dedicated to the Dioscuri in Rome, their epiphanies, their protection of various groups within Roman society, and their role as divine parallels for imperial heirs. Through her meticulous research and insightful analysis, Gartrell sheds light on the intricate interplay between religion, politics, and society in ancient Rome. She reveals how the Dioscuri, as divine beings, were not just symbols of power and authority but also agents of change and transformation.

Weight: 490g
Dimension: 158 x 237 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781108477550