The book "The Higher Aspects of Greek Religion" by L.R. Farnell, published in 1912, delves into the intricate and multifaceted world of Greek religion.
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| The Higher Aspects of Greek Religion |
The author begins by discussing the general features and origins of Greek religion, highlighting its evolution from a theistic creed to a social-political system. Greek religion, according to Farnell, was centered around the worship of personal individual deities who were seen as ethical personalities rather than mere nature forces.
The concept of anthropomorphism was a predominant bias in Greek religion, although it also retained many primitive features of animism or animatism.
Farnell explores the gradual progress of Greek religion, noting that it did not undergo a violent break with its distant past. He also discusses the fusion of the element of magic with religion, although it was not the predominant aspect.
The author argues that Hellenism and Hellenic religion were a blend of two ethnic strains - one North-Aryan and the other Mediterranean, mainly Minoan-Mycenaean.
Farnell provides criteria for distinguishing the various influences of these two strains and emphasizes the value of Homeric evidence in understanding Greek religion.
In the second lecture, Farnell focuses on the religious bond and morality of the family in Greek society.
He explains that the earliest type of family in Hellenic society was patrilinear and discusses the importance of the cult of the hearth and Zeus, the God of the household, in early religious practices. Marriage, according to Farnell, was a religious ceremony consecrated to Zeus and Hera, serving as a sacrament or mystery. He also explores the connection between marriage and the agricultural life in Greek society.
Overall, "The Higher Aspects of Greek Religion" provides a comprehensive and detailed analysis of Greek religion, shedding light on its origins, development, and various aspects such as family morality and religious practices. Farnell's work offers valuable insights into the complex and rich tapestry of Greek religious beliefs and practices.
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