This 1999 book is about the religious life of the Greeks from the eighth century BC to the fifth century AD, looked at in the context of a variety of different cities and periods. Simon Price does not describe some abstract and self-contained system of religion or myths but examines local practices and ideas in the light of general Greek ideas, relating them for example, to gender roles and to cultural and political life (including Attic tragedy and the trial of Socrates). He also lays emphasis on the reactions to Greek religions of ancient thinkers - Greek, Roman, Jewish and Christian. The evidence drawn on is of all kinds: literary texts, which are translated throughout; inscriptions, including an appendix of newly translated Greek inscriptions; and archaeology, which is highlighted in the numerous illustrations.

‘A fine addition to Cambridge University Press’s Key Themes in Ancient History series, Price’s intensive and authoritative survey will go straight to the top of the reading lists.’

Source: The Times Literary Supplement

‘ … the only brief, up-to-date treatment of Greek religion from a sociological viewpoint widespread in the United States and England, and thus broadens a literature dominated by Continental scholars with different agenda.’

Source: Bryn Mawr Classical Review