The Study of Greek and Roman Religions: Insularity and Assimilation

The study of Greek and Roman religions needs to be more interdisciplined with the study of "religion" as a category to avoid contradictory conclusions. This book provides an overview, criticism, and assessment of the gap and offers a theoretical approach to the historical period, exploring the relationship between theory and history of religion. It also critiques crucial problems in the study of ancient religions and encourages us to re-examine our approach.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 22 February 2024
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

The study of ancient religious ideas presents a complex and multifaceted challenge that requires a multidisciplinary approach. While the term "religion" may be applicable to antiquity, it is important to recognize that the concept of religion has evolved over time and varies across different cultures and historical periods. Classicists, ancient historians, and religious studies scholars must work closely together to gain a comprehensive understanding of ancient religious practices and beliefs.

One of the key challenges in studying ancient religions is the disciplinary gap between the study of Greek and Roman religions and the study of "religion" as a category. This gap has often led to contradictory conclusions regarding Greek and Roman religion, as scholars from different fields approach the topic with different theoretical frameworks and methodologies.

Nickolas P. Roubekas argues that this disciplinary gap has resulted in a lack of interdisciplinarity in the study of ancient religions. In his book, "Theory and History of Religion in Graeco-Roman Antiquity," Roubekas seeks to address this lack by providing an overview, criticism, and assessment of the chasm between these two fields.

The book begins by providing a theoretical framework for understanding ancient religions. Roubekas raises the issue of the relationship between "theory of religion" and "history of religion," exploring how history influences theory and vice versa. He also examines how different historical periods and cultural contexts shape the development of religious ideas and practices.

In the next section, Roubekas presents an in-depth critique of some crucial problems that have been central to the discussions of scholars who work on Graeco-Roman antiquity. These problems include the definition of religion, the nature of religious experience, the role of myth and ritual in religious practice, and the relationship between religion and politics. Roubekas encourages readers to re-examine how we approach the study of ancient religions by challenging traditional assumptions and exploring new approaches.

One of the strengths of "Theory and History of Religion in Graeco-Roman Antiquity" is its interdisciplinary approach. Roubekas draws on insights from various fields, including philosophy, sociology, anthropology, and religious studies, to provide a comprehensive analysis of ancient religious practices and beliefs. This approach allows readers to gain a deeper understanding of the complex and multifaceted nature of ancient religions and their role in shaping human societies.

Another important aspect of the book is its engagement with contemporary debates surrounding the study of religion. Roubekas addresses issues such as the relationship between religion and science, the role of religion in social and political movements, and the challenges of studying religion in a globalized world. He provides thoughtful and nuanced perspectives on these topics, challenging readers to think critically about the ways in which ancient religions continue to shape our contemporary world.

In conclusion, the study of ancient religious ideas presents a complex and multifaceted challenge that requires a multidisciplinary approach. By working closely together, classicists, ancient historians, and religious studies scholars can gain a comprehensive understanding of ancient religious practices and beliefs. "Theory and History of Religion in Graeco-Roman Antiquity" by Nickolas P. Roubekas is a valuable contribution to this field, providing a theoretical framework, critique, and assessment of the disciplinary gap between the study of Greek and Roman religions and the study of "religion" as a category. The book encourages readers to re-examine how we approach the study of ancient religions and provides thoughtful and nuanced perspectives on contemporary debates surrounding the study of religion.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350336247