In this pioneering 1902 work of historical-religious scholarship, the author sifts through ancient artifacts and texts to trace the rise of the Eastern religion of Mithra-the Zoroastrian divinity of oath and covenant-throughout the Roman Empire and its spread among the Roman legions. He compares and contrasts Mithraism with the competitor that eclipsed it: Christianity.

The deification of Julius Caesar represented a turning point in Rome's religion. The polytheistic, state-sanctioned pantheon made room for new gods: the Caesars. Learn how and why Octavius, Caesar's adopted son, instituted a monarchy that appeared to be a republic, and how the worship of his family and his personal authority transformed traditional religion.

Students will learn about the roles and relationships of the heroes and gods in ancient Roman myths and legends. Several ancient Roman myths, describing how these stories helped ancient people interpret their world.

Religion in the Roman Empire goes beyond gods and goddesses to provide a detailed look at the belief system of ancient Rome. As the empire expanded, diverse cultures joined together, bringing new traditions, sacred places, and holidays. The book examines current scholarship about the role religion played in the lives of everyday Romans as well as that of spiritual figures like priests and priestesses. Bibliography, Biographies, Black-and-White Photographs,...

"Describes the role of religion in ancient Egypt during the New Kingdom period, from about 1550 BCE to about 1070 BCE, including the diverse gods and goddesses the people worshipped, their creation myths, and the role of priesthood"--Provided by publisher.

Explores the religion of ancient Rome, focusing on how particular gods and goddesses were part of, and honored in, the everyday lives of the Roman people.

Offers a history of Christianity ranging back to the origins of the Hebrew Bible and covering the world, following the three main strands of the Christian faith, to teach modern readers how Jesus' message spread and how the New Testament was formed. MacCulloch follows the Christian story to all corners of the globe, filling in often neglected accounts of conversions and confrontations in Africa and Asia. He explores the roots of the faith that galvanized...