Votive Body Parts in Greek and Roman Religion

This book explores votive offerings in the shape of parts of the human body in classical antiquity, comparing and contrasting examples from four areas and time periods. It examines how beliefs about the body changed across classical antiquity and how far these beliefs overlap with modern ideas.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 233 pages
Publication date: 19 August 2021
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

This captivating book delves into a fascinating realm of classical antiquity, exploring the widespread and cherished practice of votive offerings in the form of human body parts. Through a meticulous examination of examples from four principal areas and time periods—Classical Greece, pre-Roman Italy, Roman Gaul, and Roman Asia Minor—the author employs a compare-and-contrast methodology to unveil the unique characteristics and variations of these votives. By delving into the intricacies of these offerings, the book sheds light on the profound shifts in beliefs about the body that occurred throughout classical antiquity. It also examines the intricate interplay between these ancient beliefs and modern notions about the body, its physical boundaries, and the conceptual frameworks that shape our understanding of it.

Central themes woven throughout the book include the profound impact of illness and healing, the unsettling phenomenon of bodily fragmentation, the intriguing concept of human-animal hybridity, the transmission and reception of traditions, and the intricate mechanics of personal transformation within religious rituals. Each chapter offers a rich tapestry of insights, drawing upon a wealth of historical and cultural sources to provide a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of this captivating subject.

In conclusion, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the rich tapestry of beliefs and practices surrounding the human body in classical antiquity. Through its meticulous research, engaging analysis, and thought-provoking themes, it offers a profound and illuminating perspective on the complex and multifaceted nature of human existence in ancient times.

Weight: 414g
Dimension: 169 x 244 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781316610428