Oxford University Press - Smoke Signals for the Gods Book

Explore the deep history of ancient Mediterranean religions with Smoke Signals for the Gods. This scholarly work examines animal sacrifice from the Archaic through the Roman periods, offering a fresh perspective on a subject that has shaped religious studies since the nineteenth century. While previous theories by scholars like Walter Burkert, Jean-Pierre Vernant, and Marcel Detienne have focused on psychological and sociological aspects, this book moves beyond those frameworks. It addresses the gaps left by prior research by looking specifically at the roles of priests and the gods themselves. Instead of only viewing sacrifice through the lens of guilt or social solidarity, this text provides a broader comparison of animal sacrifice to other types of offerings made to the gods. It is an essential resource for students and researchers interested in the rituals and religious structures of the ancient world.