Religion and Classical Warfare: Archaic and Classical Greece

Religion played a significant role in the conduct of war in the ancient world, and this volume explores that relationship by bringing together the work of experts from across the globe. The chapters cover various aspects of the link between war and religion, including Greek writers on religion and war, declarations of war, fate and predestination, omens, oracles, portents, trophies, dedications, militarized deities, sacred truces, festivals, oaths, and vows.

Format: Hardback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 03 August 2020
Publisher: Pen & Sword Books Ltd

Religion played a significant role in the conduct of war in the ancient world, and the Greeks were no exception. Before embarking on any campaign or risking a battle, it was customary to make sacrifices to appease the appropriate gods (such as Ares, the god of war) or seek guidance from oracles and omens to divine their plans. However, the relationship between war and religion has often been overlooked by modern scholars who study these conflicts. This volume aims to rectify that oversight by bringing together the expertise of scholars from various parts of the world.

The chapters in this volume have been carefully organized by the editors to provide a coherent and comprehensive examination of the role of religion in the wars of the Archaic and Classical Greek world. The topics covered in depth include:

Greek writers on religion and war: This section explores the perspectives of Greek writers on the relationship between religion and war, including their views on the appropriate conduct of soldiers and the role of gods in warfare.

Declarations of war: It examines the formal processes and protocols followed by Greek states when declaring war on each other, including the use of treaties, alliances, and diplomatic negotiations.

Fate and predestination: This section explores the belief in fate and predestination in Greek society and how it influenced the conduct of war. It examines the role of oracles, prophecies, and divination in determining the outcome of battles and the fate of nations.

Sphagia and pre-battle sacrifices: It discusses the practice of sphagia, or pre-battle sacrifices, which were offered to the gods to ensure victory in battle. It explores the different types of sacrifices that were made and the significance of these rituals.

Omens, oracles, and portents: This section examines the use of omens, oracles, and portents in Greek warfare. It explores the significance of these practices in predicting the outcome of battles and the role of diviners and prophets in providing guidance to military leaders.

Trophies and dedications to cult centers: It explores the practice of capturing and dedicating trophies to cult centers as a form of tribute and propaganda. It examines the significance of these trophies in shaping the identity and reputation of victorious armies.

Militarized deities: This section examines the role of deities associated with war and military power in Greek society. It explores the significance of these deities in shaping the behavior of soldiers and the nature of warfare.

Sacred truces and festivals: It discusses the practice of sacred truces and festivals that were observed during times of war. It explores the significance of these rituals in promoting peace and reconciliation between warring factions.

Oaths and vows: This section examines the use of oaths and vows in Greek warfare. It explores the significance of these oaths in binding soldiers to their leaders and the consequences of breaking these vows.

Religion and Greek military medicine: It explores the relationship between religion and Greek military medicine, including the use of religious rituals and beliefs in healing and treating injuries.

By bringing together the work of these experts, this volume provides a comprehensive and interdisciplinary study of the role of religion in the wars of the Archaic and Classical Greek world. It sheds light on the complex and multifaceted relationship between religion, warfare, and society in this period and offers valuable insights into the cultural, political, and social dynamics of the ancient Greek world.

Weight: 886g
Dimension: 241 x 212 x 30 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781473834293