107-211 Roman Religion

This subject examines the role of religion in Roman society during the last century of the Republic and the first centuries of the Imperial period (2nd century BCE to 3rd century CE). Students are introduced to the most important Roman deities, cults, rituals, festivals and priesthoods. The subject pays close attention to the role of sacrifice and prophecy, the intersection of religion and politics, the participation of different social classes, genders and ethnicities in religious ritual, and the importance of later developments such as the growth of the Imperial cult and mystery religions. Students who complete this subject should have a detailed understanding of the forms, structure and cultural importance of Roman religion.

A seminar report of 500 words, and essay of 1500 words, and a take-home exam of 2000 words.

A subject reader will be available.