Studies in Hellenistic Religions

This selection of essays by Luther Martin brings together studies from throughout his career--both early as well as more recent--in the various areas of Graeco-Roman religions, including mystery cults, Judaism, Christianity, and Gnosticism. It is hoped that these studies, which represent spatial, communal, and cognitive approaches to the study of ancient religions might be of interest to those concerned with the structures and dynamics of religions past in general, as well as to scholars who might, with more recent historical research, confirm, evaluate, extend, or refute the hypotheses offered here, for that is the way scholars work and by which scholarship proceeds.This outstanding set of essays reminds us that the study of Hellenistic religions still has a lot to offer to historians and scholars of religions. With his erudition, sharp eye, comparative outlook, and dedication to new scientific methods, Luther H. Martin offers an indispensable volume to students and scholars interested in perhaps the most diverse, rich, and complex historical period in terms of religious beliefs, ideas, and practices.--Nickolas P. Roubekas, University of ViennaBringing together articles that Luther Martin has written over a long period of time, this volume provides valuable insights into a wide spectrum of socio-political conditions and religious traditions that shaped the thought, worldview, and religious life of the Graeco-Roman era. The author's deep knowledge of the Graeco-Roman world and his unique theoretical thought embellished by his acquaintance with cognitive theories make this volume an astonishing contribution to modern understanding of past people.--Olympia Panagiotidou, Aristotle University of ThessalonikiThis volume contains a set of valuable and thought-provoking articles by Professor Luther H. Martin, a distinguished scholar of the history of religions. You may not always agree with Martin's views and support his conclusions, but they are often eye-opening and always worth considering. Definitely a must-read for all scholars interested in Hellenistic religions.--Ales Chalupa, Masaryk University, Czech RepublicThis book is a goldmine for the student of Hellenistic religions. Martin's call for a cognitive and evolutionary approach is provocative and has the potential to transform the historical study of religions.--Istvan Czachesz, University of TromsoThis is a most impressive collection of essays by a distinguished scholar who for years has led the way in our understanding of the religions of the Hellenistic period. With uncommon knowledge, critical intelligence, and theoretical power drawn from the study of human cognition, Martin presents example after example of his brilliant explanation of the wide array of religious options in the period. This collection is not just an astute contribution to the study of Hellenistic culture and religion, it has the potential to change that very study.--Willi Braun, The University of Alberta, CanadaLuther H. Martin is Professor Emeritus of Religion at the University of Vermont. He is the editor of Past Minds (2011) and author of Deep History, Secular Theory (2014) and The Mind of Mithraists (2015). Martin is a founding editor of the Journal of Cognitive Historiography. He has been recognized as an Honorary Life Member of the International Association for the History of Religions.