Studies in Hellenistic Religions
Ebook
Overview
This selection of essays by Luther Martin brings together studies from throughout his career--both early as well as more recent--in the various areas of Graeco-Roman religions, including mystery cults, Judaism, Christianity, and Gnosticism. It is hoped that these studies, which represent spatial, communal, and cognitive approaches to the study of ancient religions might be of interest to those concerned with the structures and dynamics of religions past in general, as well as to scholars who might, with more recent historical research, confirm, evaluate, extend, or refute the hypotheses offered here, for that is the way scholars work and by which scholarship proceeds.
“This outstanding set of essays reminds us that the study
of Hellenistic religions still has a lot to offer to
historians and scholars of religions. With his
erudition, sharp eye, comparative outlook, and dedication
to new scientific methods, Luther H. Martin offers an
indispensable volume to students and scholars interested
in perhaps the most diverse, rich, and complex historical
period in terms of religious beliefs, ideas, and
practices.”
—Nickolas P. Roubekas, University of Vienna
“Bringing together articles that Luther Martin has
written over a long period of time, this volume provides valuable
insights into a wide spectrum of socio-political conditions and
religious traditions that shaped the thought, worldview, and
religious life of the Graeco-Roman era. The author’s deep knowledge
of the Graeco-Roman world and his unique theoretical thought
embellished by his acquaintance with cognitive theories make this
volume an astonishing contribution to modern understanding of past
people.”
—Olympia Panagiotidou, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki
“This volume contains a set of valuable and
thought-provoking articles by Professor Luther H. Martin, a
distinguished scholar of the history of religions. You may not
always agree with Martin’s views and support his conclusions, but
they are often eye-opening and always worth considering. Definitely
a must-read for all scholars interested in Hellenistic
religions.”
—Aleš Chalupa, Masaryk University, Czech Republic
“This book is a goldmine for the student of Hellenistic
religions. Martin’s call for a cognitive and evolutionary approach
is provocative and has the potential to transform the historical
study of religions.”
—István Czachesz, University of Tromsø
“This is a most impressive collection of essays by a distinguished
scholar who for years has led the way in our understanding of the
religions of the Hellenistic period. With uncommon knowledge,
critical intelligence, and theoretical power drawn from the study
of human cognition, Martin presents example after example of his
brilliant explanation of the wide array of religious options in the
period. This collection is not just an astute contribution to the
study of Hellenistic culture and religion, it has the potential to
change that very study.”
—Willi Braun, The University of Alberta, Canada
Product Details
- Title : Studies in Hellenistic Religions
- Authors:
- Martin, Luther H.
- Pachis, Panayotis
- Publisher: Cascade Books
- Publication Date: 2018
- ISBN: 9781498283090
Luther H. Martin is Professor Emeritus of Religion at the University of Vermont. He is the editor of Past Minds (2011) and author of Deep History, Secular Theory (2014) and The Mind of Mithraists (2015). Martin is a founding editor of the Journal of Cognitive Historiography. He has been recognized as an Honorary Life Member of the International Association for the History of Religions.