Dionysus and Politics: Constructing Authority in the Graeco-Roman World

This volume explores the political significance of Dionysus in Greek and Roman political thought, from archaic Greece to the late Roman Empire. It discusses the god's place in city-state politics, the tradition of imitating him, and how it was reflected in Orphism and Neoplatonist philosophy. It is an invaluable resource for students and scholars interested in ancient politics and religion.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 232 pages
Publication date: 29 January 2024
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive volume explores the significant yet often overlooked role of Dionysus in Greek and Roman political thought. Written by an interdisciplinary team of scholars, the book spans from archaic Greece to the late Roman Empire, providing a rich tapestry of historical insights. Through a meticulous examination of various forms of evidence, including historiography, poetry, coins, epigraphy, art, and philosophy, the authors reconstruct the political significance of Dionysus. They delve into the god's place in Greek city-state politics, trace the enduring tradition of imitating Dionysus exhibited by ancient leaders such as Alexander the Great and the Roman emperors, and examine how this influence manifested in Orphism and Neoplatonist philosophy.

Dionysus and Politics serves as an invaluable introduction to a fundamental aspect of ancient political thought that has hitherto received limited attention within mainstream academia. This book will be a treasured resource for students and scholars engaged in the study of ancient politics and religion, offering a deep and multifaceted exploration of the multifaceted influence of Dionysus on the political landscape of the ancient world.

Weight: 453g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367507282