Magic and Religion in the Ancient Mediterranean World: Studies in Honor of Christopher A. Faraone

This book explores the transmission and adaptation of religious and mythical ideas, including magic, across Greco-Roman, Near Eastern, and Egyptian cultures in the ancient Mediterranean. It offers a combination of case studies on the material aspects and cross-cultural transfers of magic and religion, with a focus on papyri, gems, and other textual media. Section II explores magic and religion as nodes of cultural exchange, featuring case studies from Egypt to Anatolia and from Syria-Phoenicia to Sicily. The book appeals to both specialized and non-specialized audiences and is a valuable resource for students and scholars of magic, religion, and mythology in the ancient Mediterranean.

Format: Unspecified
Length: 374 pages
Publication date: 17 November 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Magic and Religion in the Ancient Mediterranean World appeals to both specialized scholars and general readers with an interest in ancient history,religion,and cultural studies. This volume explores the intricate connections between ancient magic and religion in the ancient Mediterranean, shedding light on the ways in which religious and mythical ideas, including the knowledge and practice of magic, were transmitted and adapted across Greco-Roman, Near Eastern, and Egyptian cultures over centuries. Offering an original and innovative combination of case studies on the material aspects and cross-cultural transfers of magic and religion, this book brings together a diverse range of contributions that cross and connect sub-fields with a pan-Mediterranean, comparative scope.

Section I delves into the material aspects of magical practices, presenting first-edition studies and original research on papyri, gems, lamellae containing binding curses and protective texts, and other textual media in ancient book culture. Several chapters focus on the Greco-Egyptian Magical Papyri, the compilation of magical recipes in the formularies, and the role of physical book-forms in the transmission of magical knowledge.

Section II explores the interplay between magic and religion as nodes of cultural exchange in the ancient Mediterranean. Case studies span from Egypt to Anatolia, from Syria-Phoenicia to Sicily, showcasing the diverse and interconnected Mediterranean landscape. Readers encounter studies that feature charismatic figures of Magi and itinerant begging priests, the multiple understandings of deities such as Hekate, Herakles, or Aphrodite, and the perceived exotic origins of cult statues, mummies, amulets, and cursing formulae. These studies highlight the rich intercultural networks of the ancient Mediterranean and the crucial role of magic and religion in the process of cross-cultural adaptation and innovation.

Magic and Religion in the Ancient Mediterranean World serves as a valuable resource for both specialized scholars and general readers with an interest in ancient history, religion, and cultural studies. It offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to understanding the complex relationships between magic and religion in the ancient Mediterranean world, contributing to our understanding of this fascinating period of human history.

Weight: 890g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032341262