Paganism in the Roman Empire by Ramsay MacMullen (PDF)

Description

“MacMullen…has published several books in recent years which establish him, rightfully, as a leading social historian of the Roman Empire. The current volume exhibits many of the characteristics of its predecessors: the presentation of novel, revisionist points of view…; discrete set pieces of trenchant argument which do not necessarily conform to the boundaries of traditional history; and an impressive, authoritative, and up-to-date documentation, especially rich in primary sources…A stimulating and provocative discourse on Roman paganism as a phenomenon worthy of synthetic investigation in its own right and as the fundamental context for the rise of Christianity.”―Richard Brilliant, History“MacMullen’s latest work represents many features of paganism in its social context more vividly and clearly than ever before.”―Fergus Millar, American Historical Review“The major cults…are examined from a social and cultural perspective and with the aid of many recently published specialized studies…Students of the Roman Empire…should read this book.”―Robert J, Penella, Classical World“A distinguished book with much exact observation…An indispensable mine of erudition on a grand theme.” Henry Chadwick, Times Literary SupplementRamsay MacMullen is Dunham Professor of History and Classics at Yale University and the author of Roman Government’s Response to Crisis, A.D. 235-337 and Roman Social Relations, 50 B.C. to A.D. 284

User’s Reviews

Reviews from Amazon users which were colected at the time this book was published on the website:

⭐Book in excellent shape, as described. Happy with my purchase, thank you!

⭐Ramsay MacMullen’s Paganism in the Roman Empire effectively argues that Paganism was much less rigid than the organized Christian religion that replaced it and is practiced in any present day denomination–Protestant or Catholic. Pre-Christian paganism was more diffuse, more amorphous and cooperative than anything we imagine. Our modern concept of their practices is convincingly debunked. Those who were initiates or practitioners were also, apparently, far less mono-maniacal and more inclusive (to borrow a favorite present day term) than today’s religionists of all sects (not just Christians).Unfortunately, the author’s presentation is dry to the point of arid. Much like the parchment scrolls or stone tablets he references. If Paganism were as dull as his presentation it would hardly have thrived for thousands of years. Very good for facts and information. Also rather dull. Depending upon your tolerance for less than exciting writing, either three or four stars. I think Mr. MacMullen’s thesis is impressive–his presentation of it less so.

⭐Paganism in the Roman Empire is a classic on the subject. The author probes the psyche of the ancients in an attempt to discover their inner motivations, desires, and aspirations as they sought enlightment and religious meaning in the various cults that spread through the Empire. He also tells us what role the traditional religion of the gods played in the lives of Roman citizens. This is an excellent scholarly work that is a must for anyone seeking to understand ancient religion.

⭐This book explores what we can know about Roman paganism given the paucity of sources. Conclusions are judicious, measured, yet useful. MacMullen shows us that the decline of paganism was by now means assured. He also questions (and demolishes) the whole idea of a pagan state cult–at least as we understand the idea today. The student of ancient church history will also benefit from a greater understanding of the similarities (and differences) between Christianity and paganism. Recommended.

⭐This book is a clear example of a scientist who has done a lot of research and writes for a university but not for the public. The language is very complicated and the structure of the book is not reader friendly. Several chapters start one place (as specified by the headline) but then wanders off and treats different subjects as well. Here and there there are some super interesting descriptions of pagan practices which I have seen nowhere else, and the ties/similarities between pagen practices and christian are extremely interesting. Too bad the structure of the book was not better. A buyer should also beware that of the 241 pages, the last 100 is notes etc.

⭐Das Buch ist sehr gut erhalten, obwohl es gebraucht ist.Ich habe schon einige gebrauchte Bücher gekauft und war immer sehr zufrieden.Leider gab es diesmal lange Lieferzeiten.Aber schließlich ist es gut bei mir angekommen.

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