Customer Reviews

Greek Folk Religion

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I found this book to be a good contrast to the usual subject of the city religions, which mostly focus on Athens. This is highly recommended to anyone who seriously wants to get a well-rounded understanding of the 'Greek religious experience.' The only thing that I did not like about the book was the lack of extensive footnotes, such as W. Burkert likes to use.

I enjoyed Nilssons in depth discussion of the Eleusian Mysteries. He takes into account the climatic conditions specific to the Mediterranean. For example, Kore is relegated to the underworld during that time of year which is most unforgiving to human existence, in this case the months of July, August and September when the rains have ceased. This is altogether an excellent reference book. Nilsson himself having grown up in a rural setting is very familiar with folkways. An interesting read.