Dictionary of Roman Religion

Long overshadowed by Greek mythology or treated peripherally in gernal texts on the ancient Roman world, Roman religion is finally accorded its due in this unique reference work. While perhaps most familiar in the context of Greek-influenced gods, Roman religious life in fact encompassed a tremendous variety of deities, rites, and belief systems. From the Celtic god Abandinus to the pagan historian Zosimus, Dictionary of Roman Religion contains more than 1,400 entries. Among the topics covered are deities and spirits, festivals, sacrifices, temples, altars, cult objects, burial rites, writers on religion, and historical religious events. Different religions within the Roman world, such as Mithraism, Druidism, Judaism, and Christianity, are also discussed. Entries range from brief definitions to concise essays reflecting important aspects of religious practice, and most include suggestions for further reading in addition to a complete bibliography. An essential reference for students, researchers and teachers, as well as those interested in ancient religions, myths and legends, Roman society, and classical studies, this dictionary is a welcome and novel addition to the vast library on ancient Roman life.