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Numa Pompilius, King of Rome, active 715 B.C.-673 B.C. -- Religion Books
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Cyril Bailey
The Religion of Ancient Rome
"The Religion of Ancient Rome" by Cyril Bailey is a historical account written in the early 20th century. This work delves into the beliefs, practices, and rituals of ancient Roman religion, focusing on its origins and characteristics distinct from later developments influenced by foreign cultures. The book aims to explore the foundational aspects of the native Roman religion, particularly what is often referred to as the "Religion of Numa." The opening of the text establishes the idea that understanding early Roman religion requires stripping away layers of later influences and considering its indigenous components. Bailey begins by drawing parallels between the study of Roman religion and archaeological reconstruction, emphasizing the necessity of comprehending the native beliefs before they were altered by external ideas. He highlights the importance of primary sources such as remaining inscriptions and ancient rituals to tease out the authentic spiritual structure of early Rome, which he plans to examine throughout the chapters that follow. The introduction serves as a foundation for a deeper exploration of key aspects of this ancient faith, such as household worship, agricultural practices, and the spiritual understanding of natural phenomena.
Jesse Benedict Carter
The Religion of Numa And Other Essays on the Religion of Ancient Rome
"The Religion of Numa" by Jesse Benedict Carter is a scholarly work composed of essays that explore the religious practices and beliefs of ancient Rome, likely written in the early 20th century. The book delves into various historical periods of Roman religion, focusing particularly on the era before foreign influences began to change the religious landscape, and examines the significance of different deities throughout Rome’s early history. At the start of the book, the author introduces the concept of Roman religion during the monarchy, emphasizing its ties to the political structure and social organization of the time. Carter outlines the general characteristics of early Roman deities and their functions, explaining that the gods were primarily seen as representations of natural forces rather than individualized mythological figures. The essays also aim to elucidate the gradual evolution of Roman religious consciousness as it absorbed new influences, specifically highlighting the roles of early kings like Numa and Servius Tullius in shaping religious practices and adapting them to the community's changing social dynamics.
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