Ancient Greek religion / Jon D. Mikalson.

Enhanced descriptions from Syndetics:

Ancient Greek Religion provides an introduction to the fundamental beliefs, practices, and major deities of Greek religion. Focuses on Athens in the classical period Includes detailed discussion of Greek gods and heroes, myth and cult, and vivid descriptions of Greek religion as it was practiced Ancient texts are presented in boxes to promote thought and discussion, and abundant illustrations help readers visualize the rich and varied religious life of ancient Greece Revised edition includes additional boxed texts and bibliography, an 8-page color plate section, a new discussion of the nature of Greek "piety," and a new chapter on Greek Religion and Greek Culture

Reviews provided by Syndetics

CHOICE Review

An internationally renowned scholar of Greek religion, Mikalson (classics, Univ. of Virginia) here offers one of the best introductions to Greek religion that has been written. Having made a number of significant contributions over time, he attempts, in his most recent work, to synthesize his knowledge in order to introduce beginners to the discipline. In this objective he is completely successful. Greek religion is so chaotic that it is often confusing to the expert, much less the beginner. The vast number of cults and diverse practices within those cults contribute to this problem. Mikalson expertly navigates through many of these difficulties. He focuses on specific cults to illustrate common threads that often run through them. In addition, he focuses on Athens, the city for which the most numerous and reliable evidence exists; he limits most of this book to the classical period. Although this book will be very valuable for undergraduates, it can provide important insights to the advanced student and even to the expert. It is an important addition to any collection of classical or religious studies. ^BSumming Up: Essential. Lower-level undergraduates and up; general readers. J. R. Asher Georgetown College