Your essential Reading List for Greco-Roman paganism
Oct 03, 2023 5:41 pm
In the realms of or ancient world, amidst the majestic temples and mythical landscapes of Greeks and Romans, lies a world of deep mythologies, powerful deities, and a profound connection to the cosmos...
Greco-Roman paganism continues to captivate the imagination of spiritual seekers and scholars alike. If you are drawn to these enchanting tales of gods and heroes, the mysteries of ancient rituals, and the wisdom of this worldview, then this time around we've got you must-read list about the rich world of Greco-Roman paganism.
On the Gods and the Cosmos
Sallustius (4th century CE) was a Neoplatonic philosopher and writer, and he is best known for his work “On the Gods and the Cosmos” or “On the Gods and the Universe.”
In this philosophical treatise, Sallustius expounds on the Neoplatonic worldview, drawing on the teachings of the ancient Greek philosopher Plato and other Neoplatonists. He discusses the nature of the gods, their hierarchy, and their relationship with the cosmos and humanity. Sallustius explores the metaphysical principles that govern the universe, the divine intellect, and the concept of the One or the Good.
The work emphasizes the importance of spiritual ascent and the pursuit of knowledge to achieve unity with the divine. It provides valuable insights into the Neoplatonic understanding of the universe, offering a profound and mystical exploration of the nature of reality and the divine order.
Free e-book via Project Gutenberg
The Iliad
“The Iliad” is an ancient Greek epic poem attributed to the legendary poet Homer. Set during the Trojan War, the poem unfolds over a period of several weeks and centers around the conflict between the Greek hero Achilles and the Trojan prince Hector. The story begins with a quarrel between Achilles and King Agamemnon, leading to Achilles’ withdrawal from battle and devastating consequences for the Greek army.
Through vivid and powerful storytelling, Homer weaves a tapestry of heroic feats, tragic deaths, and divine intervention, showcasing the intricacies of human emotions and the consequences of pride and vengeance. The poem explores themes of honor, glory, fate, and the complexities of war, while also offering insights into the divine world of the Olympian gods and goddesses, who play an active role in shaping the outcome of the conflict.“The Iliad” remains a timeless masterpiece, celebrated for its rich characterization, poetic prowess, and profound exploration of the human condition.
Free e-book via Project Gutenberg
The Odyssey
“The Odyssey” is an ancient Greek epic poem attributed to the legendary poet Homer. It follows the adventures of Odysseus, the wily and heroic king of Ithaca, as he journeys home after the Trojan War. The story begins with Odysseus’ absence, and we witness the struggles of his wife Penelope and son Telemachus as they face the pressures of suitors vying for Penelope’s hand in marriage.
Throughout the poem, Odysseus encounters various mythical creatures, navigates treacherous waters, and faces divine intervention from the gods, including the sea nymph Calypso and the sorceress Circe. His long journey home is fraught with obstacles and trials, all while he yearns to reunite with his family and reclaim his kingdom.
“The Odyssey” is a timeless tale of adventure, bravery, and perseverance, exploring themes of homecoming, loyalty, and the enduring power of the human spirit. It remains a monumental work in world literature, celebrated for its poetic brilliance and profound insights into the complexities of human nature.
Free e-book via Project Gutenberg
Metamorphoses
“Metamorphoses” is a masterpiece of Latin literature, comprising fifteen books of narrative poetry. It is a poetic retelling of over 250 mythological tales, spanning from the creation of the world to the deification of Julius Caesar. The poem explores themes of transformation, love, power, and the enduring impact of divine intervention on mortal lives.
Through captivating storytelling, Ovid weaves together the stories of gods, heroes, and mortal beings, showcasing the fluidity and interconnectedness of the universe. The transformations of characters into animals, plants, and celestial bodies serve as powerful metaphors, revealing profound insights into the human condition and the unpredictable nature of life.
“Metamorphoses” has been a source of inspiration for countless artists, writers, and thinkers throughout history, and its influence continues to resonate in modern culture. It remains a significant and enduring work, celebrating the richness of Greek and Roman mythology and the timeless allure of storytelling.
Free e-book via Project Gutenberg
The Homeric Hymns
“The Homeric Hymns,” are a collection of thirty-three ancient Greek hymns attributed to Homer or the Homeric tradition.
“The Homeric Hymns” were composed between the 7th and 3rd centuries BCE and are dedicated to various gods and goddesses of Greek mythology, including Zeus, Demeter, Apollo, Hermes, and Aphrodite. Each hymn praises and celebrates the specific deity, recounting their origins, attributes, and significance in Greek religious beliefs.
These hymns provide valuable insights into ancient Greek religious practices, rituals, and the cultural importance of various deities. They offer a glimpse into the religious fervor and reverence of the ancient Greeks towards their gods and serve as a significant source for understanding Greek mythology and the religious life of the time.
Free e-book via Project Gutenberg
Theogony
“Theogony” is an ancient Greek poem written by Hesiod, believed to have been composed in the 8th or 7th century BCE. The poem is a seminal work of Greek mythology, chronicling the origins of the cosmos and the genealogy of the gods.
In “Theogony,” Hesiod narrates the creation of the world, beginning with Chaos and the emergence of the first deities, such as Gaia (Earth), Tartarus (Underworld), and Eros (Love). He traces the succession of gods, including the Titans, Cyclopes, and Hecatoncheires, as well as the birth of the Olympian gods like Zeus, Hera, and Poseidon.
The poem also delves into the struggles for power and the epic battle between the Titans and the Olympian gods, resulting in Zeus’s establishment as the supreme ruler of the cosmos.
“Theogony” serves as a fundamental source for understanding ancient Greek cosmology and religious beliefs, providing valuable insights into the early development of Greek mythology and the divine order that governed the universe.
Free e-book via Project Gutenberg
The above reading list should give you a thorough understanding of the religious views of the ancient Greeks and Romans. And to be clear, there are no affiliate links or anything of the sort. Just figured some people may want to buy a paper copy, while others prefer a free e-book.
Have fun exploring these literary gems! ✌
