Classical Athens and the Delphic Oracle: Divination and Democracy

Hugh Bowden

ISBN 10: 0521530814 / ISBN 13: 9780521530811

Published by Cambridge University Press, 2005

About this Item

This book provides an exploration of the Oracle of Apollo at Delphi, where the god Apollo was believed to speak to inquirers through his priestesses. In particular, it examines Athens' use of the oracle c. 500-300 BC. Demonstrating the importance of communication with the gods, and doing their will, in classical Athenian society, Hugh Bowden concludes that ancient Athens was not a secular Westernized democracy as we understand the term today. 249 5.5,"unit":"INCHES"},{"value":0.47,"unit":"INCHES"},{"value":8.5,"unit":"INCHES"}].

Seller Inventory # 41864742371364

Bibliographic Details

• Title: Classical Athens and the Delphic Oracle: Divination and Democracy
• Publisher: Cambridge University Press
• Publication Date: 2005
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0521530814
• ISBN 13: 9780521530811
• Binding: Paperback
• Condition: Very good

About this title

Synopsis

This book provides an exploration of the Oracle of Apollo at Delphi, where the god Apollo was believed to speak to inquirers through his priestesses. In particular, it examines Athens' use of the oracle c. 500-300 BC. Demonstrating the importance of communication with the gods, and doing their will, in classical Athenian society, Hugh Bowden concludes that ancient Athens was not a secular Westernized democracy as we understand the term today.

About the Author

Hugh Bowden is Lecturer in Ancient History at King's College London. He is the author of numerous articles on Greek religion and history and is editor of The Times Ancient Civilizations (2002).