Roman Mythology: Gods, Cults, and Influences

Introduction

• Roman gods were heavily influenced by Greek mythology.
• Video by World History Encyclopedia presented by Kelly.
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Early Roman Religion

• Initially animistic; spirits in nature and household spirits.
• Main early deities included Mars, Quirinus, and Jupiter.
• Capitoline Triad worshipped at a temple on Capitoline Hill.
• Greek and Etruscan influences led to changes in worship.

Adoption of Greek Gods

• Roman religion absorbed Greek gods and myths as Rome expanded.
• Greek art, architecture, and philosophy influenced Roman culture.
• Roman counterparts to Greek gods established:
  • Zeus (Jupiter), Hera (Juno), Athena (Minerva)
  • Aphrodite (Venus), Hades (Pluto), Poseidon (Neptune)
  • Artemis (Diana), Ares (Mars), Dionysos (Bacchus), Hermes (Mercury)
  • Apollo retained his name.

Original Roman Deities

• Janus: god of doorways and time, similar to Etruscan Culsans.
• Tiberinus: god of the Tiber River, associated with fertility.
• Vesta: goddess of hearth and home, linked to the Greek Hestia.

Roman Religious Practices

• Personal veneration and public rituals were both important.
• Patron deities for cities, temples built as homes for gods.
• Religion tied to state, with Emperor Augustus as 'Pontifex Maximus.'
• Augurs interpreted omens; rituals for divine approval before battles.

Roman Myths and Literature

• Roman poets like Virgil and Ovid wrote about the gods.
• Similarity to Greek Hesiod and Homer.

Additional Deities and Influences

• Saturn: Roman counterpart of Greek Cronus with festival Saturnalia.
• Minor gods: Nemesis, Cupid, Pax.

Roman Cults and their Impact

• Mystery cults such as Mithraic mysteries and the cult of Cybele.
• Cult of Bacchus viewed as dangerous by Roman Senate.
• Isis, an Egyptian goddess, became popular in Rome.
• Emperor worship through the Imperial Cult.

Influence of Roman Religion on Christianity

• Early Christianity adapted Roman religious practices.
• Examples:
  • Title 'Pontifex Maximus' became 'Pope.'
  • Pagan holidays transformed into Christian holy days.
  • Influence of Vestal Virgins on nunnery.
• Protestant Reformation critiqued absorption of Roman elements into Christianity.

Conclusion

• Roman mythology deeply influenced by Greece and other cultures.
• Continued influence visible in modern religious practices.
• Encouragement to explore religious practices borrowed from other cultures.

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