Exploring the Influence of Greek Religion on Roman Culture: Gods, Evolution, and Fascinating Rituals

ASSIGNMENT INSTRUCTIONS:

The Romans borrowed many aspects of the Greek Religion and changed them in a way that suited Roman life. Based on your readings, answer the following questions.
Identify any five Greek Gods that found a place in the Roman religion and elaborate upon their traits.
Do you think that the Roman religion was an exact copy of the Greek religion or did it evolve to become distinct in its way? Justify with relevant examples.
Which religious ritual or practice of the Romans do you find fascinating and why?
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HOW TO WORK ON THIS ASSIGNMENT (EXAMPLE ESSAY / DRAFT)

The Roman religion was greatly influenced by the Greek religion, and as a result, many Greek gods and goddesses found their way into the Roman pantheon. Below are five such gods and their traits:

1. Zeus/Jupiter: Zeus, the king of the gods in Greek mythology, was worshipped in Rome as Jupiter. He was the god of the sky and thunder and was also associated with law, order, and justice.
2. Aphrodite/Venus: Aphrodite, the goddess of love, beauty, and fertility in Greek mythology, was worshipped in Rome as Venus. She was associated with love, sex, and fertility and was also the patron goddess of prostitutes.
3. Hermes/Mercury: Hermes, the messenger of the gods in Greek mythology, was worshipped in Rome as Mercury. He was the god of commerce, travel, and thievery, and also the patron of merchants and traders.
4. Demeter/Ceres: Demeter, the goddess of agriculture and harvest in Greek mythology, was worshipped in Rome as Ceres. She was the patron goddess of agriculture, grain crops, and fertility.
5. Ares/Mars: Ares, the god of war and bloodshed in Greek mythology, was worshipped in Rome as Mars. He was the god of war and was also associated with agriculture and fertility.

The Roman religion was not an exact copy of the Greek religion. Although they borrowed many aspects of the Greek religion, they modified them to suit their own needs and beliefs. For example, the Romans placed a greater emphasis on ancestor worship and believed in the concept of fate, which was not present in Greek religion.

One of the most fascinating religious practices of the Romans was the Mithraic mysteries. Mithraism was a mystery religion centered around the god Mithras, who was often depicted slaying a bull. The religion was popular among Roman soldiers and spread throughout the Roman Empire. The initiation ceremonies involved seven degrees of initiation, each with its symbolic meaning. The highest degree was reserved for those who had achieved a state of spiritual enlightenment. The rituals were shrouded in secrecy, and little is known about them, which adds to their mystique and fascination.

In conclusion, the Roman religion was greatly influenced by the Greek religion, but it evolved to become distinct in its way. The Roman pantheon included many Greek gods and goddesses, but their traits and attributes were modified to fit Roman beliefs and practices. The Mithraic mysteries stand out as one of the most fascinating religious practices of the Romans due to their mysterious nature and secretive rituals.