Divination in the Ancient World : Religious Options and the Individual.

Print version record.

Table of contents; introduction; new perspectives on ancient divination; oracular consultation, fate, and the concept of the individual; seeking certainty and claiming authority; interpretative strategies for delphic oracles and kledons; cicero and the pythia -- a deceptive dilemma?; "will my child have a big nose?"; lucian of samosata on oracles, magic and superstition; individuation through divination; index.

The search for knowledge of the future and for divine help is found in all ancient Mediterranean cultures. The key question of this e-book is: What are the interdependences between divination and processes of individualization or de-individualization in the ancient world? Individualization is understood as a process of change on the societal level. In contrast, individuation is a development on the personal level. Discussions about the definition of these terms are continuing. Divination may always have some effects on processes of individuation and individualization. Divination may be a means.

eBooks on EBSCOhost EBSCO eBook Subscription Academic Collection - Worldwide