Delphi: A History of the Center of the Ancient World - Michael Scott

Résumé :
In this richly illustrated account, Michael Scott covers the whole history and nature of Delphi, from the literary and archaeological evidence surrounding the site, to its rise as a center of worship with a wide variety of religious practices, to the constant appeal of the oracle despite her cryptic prophecies. He describes how Delphi became a contested sacred site for Greeks and Romans and a storehouse for the treasures of rival city-states and foreign kings. He also examines the eventual decline of the site and how its meaning and importance have continued to be reshaped right up to the present. Finally, for the modern visitor to Delphi, he includes a brief guide that highlights key things to see and little-known treasures.

Biographie:
Michael Scott is assistant professor of classics and ancient history at the University of Warwick. His books include From Democrats to Kings: The Brutal Dawn of a New World from the Downfall of Athens to the Rise of Alexander the Great (Overlook). He has also written and presented a number of ancient history documentaries for National Geographic, the History channel, Nova, and the BBC, including one on Delphi. His website is www.michaelscottweb.com.

Sommaire:
Acknowledgments xi Maps xiii Prologue: Why Delphi? 1 Part I: Some are born great 1: Oracle 9 2: Beginnings 31 3: Transformation 51 4: Rebirth 71 Part II : Some achieve greatness 5: Fire 93 6: Domination 119 7: Renewal 139 8: Transition 163 Part III: Some have greatness thrust upon them 9: A New World 183 10: Renaissance 203 11: Final Glory? 223 12: The Journey Continues 245 Epilogue: Unearthing Delphi 269 Conclusion 285 Guide: A Brief Tour of the Delphi Site and Museum 291 Abbreviations 303 Notes 309 Bibliography 375 Index 401