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The Seer in Ancient Greece

Online ISBN:
9780520934009
Print ISBN:
9780520252295
Publisher:
University of California Press
Book

The Seer in Ancient Greece

Published:
1 July 2008
Online ISBN:
9780520934009
Print ISBN:
9780520252295
Publisher:
University of California Press

Abstract

The seer (mantis), an expert in the art of divination, operated in ancient Greek society through a combination of charismatic inspiration and diverse skills ranging from examining the livers of sacrificed animals to spirit possession. Unlike the palm readers and mediums who existed on the fringe of modern society, many seers were highly paid, well-respected, educated members of the elite who played an essential role in the conduct of daily life, political decisions, and military campaigns. Armies, for example, never went anywhere without one. This book enters into the socioreligious world of ancient Greece to explore what seers did, why they were so widely employed, and how their craft served as a viable and useful social practice.

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