DOC Magic in Ancient Egypt: Revised Edition by Geraldine Pinch in History

Description

Interest in goddess worship is growing in contemporary society; as women seek models for feminine spirituality and wholeness. New cults are developing around ancient goddesses from many cultures; although their modern adherents often envision and interpret the goddesses very differently than their original worshippers did. In this thematic study of the Roman goddess Ceres; Barbette Spaeth explores the rich complexity of meanings and functions that grew up around the goddess from the prehistoric period to the Late Roman Empire. In particular; she examines two major concepts; fertility and liminality; and two social categories; the plebs and women; which were inextricably linked with Ceres in the Roman mind. Spaeth then analyzes an image of the goddess in a relief of the Ara Pacis; an important state monument of the Augustan period; showing how it incorporates all these varied roles and associations of Ceres. This interpretation represents a new contribution to art history. With its use of literary; epigraphical; numismatic; artistic; and archaeological evidence; The Roman Goddess Ceres presents a more encompassing view of the goddess than was previously available. It will be important reading for all students of Classics; as well as for a general audience interested in New Age; feminist; or pagan spirituality.