Roman Mythology
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Terminus, the deity associated with boundaries, presided over the Terminalia festival, observed on February 23. This celebration signified the final religious observance prior to the Roman New Year commencing on March 1, thus marking the conclusion of the religious year. The Roman poet Ovid narrates the legends and rituals surrounding Terminus within the second book…
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Saturn: The Agricultural God of Rome Saturn, known in Roman mythology as Saturnus, shares a narrative similar to that of Cronus from Greek lore. Often portrayed in artwork brandishing a scythe, he is primarily recognized as a deity of agriculture, particularly associated with seed-corn. One of the key highlights in the Roman calendar was the…
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The Essence and Evolution of Ancient Roman Religion Roman religion, encompassing the beliefs and practices of the inhabitants of the Italian peninsula from ancient times until the rise of Christianity in the 4th century CE, embodies a unique aspect of Classical antiquity. Renowned orator Cicero noted that Romans distinguished themselves by recognizing that all aspects…
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Overview Jupiter, or Iuppiter, held the esteemed position as the chief deity among the Romans and Latins, embodying the sky, weather, and the overarching principles of order and state within the Roman Empire. His persona was largely synonymous with Zeus, the Greek god, although their worship traditions were distinct. The grandeur of Jupiter’s worship centered…
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In Roman mythology, the goddess Proserpina, known as Persephone in Greek traditions, governs the essence of the seasons as well as the underworld. Her influence extends beyond just Roman lore, impacting various cultures and belief systems. The narrative of her abduction by Pluto and her subsequent reign as the underworld’s queen illustrates her duality—ruling both…
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Following centuries marked by political turmoil, civil wars, and assassinations leading to the disintegration of the Roman Republic, Ancient Rome experienced a significant period of peace and prosperity known as the Pax Romana, or “Roman Peace.” This era commenced with Augustus’s rise to power as the first emperor in 27 B.C. and continued until the…
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Quirinus: The Roman God of Communities Quirinus is recognized as a significant deity in ancient Roman spirituality. Initially, he was among the top Roman gods, alongside Jupiter and Mars, and his worship was managed by one of the three principal flamines. These flamines, priests dedicated to specific gods, placed Quirinus in a lower rank within…
