Delphi : a history of the center of the ancient world / Michael Scott.
Scott, Michael, 1981- author.
2014
DF261.D35 S36 2014 (Mapit)
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Title Delphi : a history of the center of the ancient world / Michael Scott.
Author Scott, Michael, 1981- author.
ISBN 9780691150819 hardcover alkaline paper
0691150818 hardcover alkaline paper
1400851327 electronic book
9781400851324 electronic book
Published Princeton, NJ : Princeton University Press, [2014]
Copyright ©2014
Language English
Description xi, 422 pages, 8 unnumbered pages of plates : illustrations (some color), maps ; 25 cm
Call Number DF261.D35 S36 2014
Dewey Decimal Classification 938
Summary The oracle and sanctuary of the Greek god Apollo at Delphi were known as the "omphalos"--The "center" or "navel"--of the ancient world for more than 1000 years. Individuals, city leaders, and kings came from all over the Mediterranean and beyond to consult Delphi's oracular priestess; to set up monuments to the gods in gold, ivory, bronze, marble, and stone; and to take part in athletic and musical competitions. This book provides the first comprehensive narrative history of this extraordinary sanctuary and city, from its founding to its modern rediscovery, to show more clearly than ever before why Delphi was one of the most important places in the ancient world for so long. 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. A unique window into the center of the ancient world, this book will appeal to general readers, tourists, students, and specialists.
Note The oracle and sanctuary of the Greek god Apollo at Delphi were known as the "omphalos"--The "center" or "navel"--of the ancient world for more than 1000 years. Individuals, city leaders, and kings came from all over the Mediterranean and beyond to consult Delphi's oracular priestess; to set up monuments to the gods in gold, ivory, bronze, marble, and stone; and to take part in athletic and musical competitions. This book provides the first comprehensive narrative history of this extraordinary sanctuary and city, from its founding to its modern rediscovery, to show more clearly than ever before why Delphi was one of the most important places in the ancient world for so long. 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. A unique window into the center of the ancient world, this book will appeal to general readers, tourists, students, and specialists.
Bibliography, etc. Note Includes bibliographical references and index.
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Prologue. Why Delphi?
Part I. Some are born great
Oracle
Beginnings
Transformation
Rebirth
Part II. Some achieve greatness
Fire
Domination
Renewal
Transition
Part III. Some have greatness thrust upon them
A new world
Renaissance
Final glory?
The journey continues
Epilogue. Unearthing Delphi
A brief tour of the Delphi site and museum.

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