ENGLISH

Stars, Myths and Rituals in Etruscan Rome

By Leonardo Magini (auth.)

Book information

Publisher
Springer International Publishing
Year
2015
ISBN
978-3-319-07265-4, 978-3-319-07266-1
DOI
10.1007/978-3-319-07266-1
Language
english
Format
PDF
Filesize
6 MB (6600165 bytes)
Series
Space and Society
Edition
1
Pages
181\196
Topic
Physics Astronomy
Time added
2015-02-17 02:00:00
AstronomyObservations and Techniques; History and Philosoph

Description

This book offers a detailed and fascinating picture of the astonishing astronomical knowledge on which the Roman calendar, traditionally attributed to the king Numa Pompilius (reign 715-673 B.C.), was based. This knowledge, of Mesopotamian origins, related mainly to the planetary movements and to the occurrence of eclipses in the solar system. The author explains the Numan year and cycle and illustrates clearly how astronomical phenomena exerted a powerful influence over both public and private life. A series of concise chapters examine the dates of the Roman festivals, describe the related rites and myths and place the festivals in relation to the planetary movements and astronomical events. Special reference is made to the movements of the moon and Venus, their relation to the language of myth, and the particular significance that Venus was considered to have for female fertility. The book clearly demonstrates the depth of astronomical knowledge reflected in the Roman religious calendar and the designated festive days. It will appeal both to learned connoisseurs and to amateurs with a particular interest in the subject.

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