Theoroi and Initiates in Samothrace: The Epigraphical Evidence

by Nora M. Dimitrova

Overview

As one of the most famous religious centers in the Aegean, the island of Samothrace was visited by thousands of worshippers between the 7th century B.C. and the 4th century A.D. All known inscriptions listing or mentioning Samothracian initiates and theoroi (a total of 169 texts) are presented, including a number of previously unpublished fragments.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780876615379
Publisher:	American School of Classical Studies at Athens
Publication date:	11/10/2008
Series:	Hesperia Supplement , #37
Edition description:	Volume XXXVII
Pages:	296
Product dimensions:	8.46(w) x 10.98(h) x (d)
Age Range:	17 Years

About the Author

Nora M. Dimitrova is a postdoctoral associate at Cornell University.

Editorial Reviews

Comprehensiveness alone makes this a useful tool for anyone interested in the Samothracian cult. [...] future scholars will be grateful for Dimitrovas efforts... she has succeeded in creating a collection that will serve other researchers well for years to come.'

AJA Online Book Reviews - Kathryn Simonsen

The Hesperia Supplement monograph series has long been a premier venue for epigraphic publication, but D.s edition represents a new height: text and commentary are laid out cleanly and legibly; there are 133 black and white photographs and drawings of the inscriptions; and it is possible in many cases to check D.s text against an illustration without turning a page.
In sum, D. has presented what will be the standard of Samothracian inscriptions concerning theoroi and initiates for this generation, as well as an invaluable resource for advanced students and scholars researching nearly any aspect of the religion and history of the island.'

Classical Journal Online - D. Graninger

Dimitrova offers a clear and systematic presentation of the known epigraphic evidence. The discussion of the possible interpretation and value of the texts is logical and justifiable.This volume provides an exceptionally useful resource for those interested in the Samothracian cult and also provides valuable evidence on access and initiation in the mystery cults of the ancient world. Its value will surely increase once the remaining volumes of the Samothrace excavation reports are completed.'

Bryn Mawr Classical Review, Vol. 54, 2009 - Kirsten M. Bedigan