Zeus: A Study in Ancient Religion; Volume 1: Zeus God of the Bright Sky

Zeus #1

by Arthur B. Cook

A. B. Cook (1868–1952) published the first volume of his monumental A Study in Ancient Religion in 1914. This comprehensive work traces the genesis, development and growth of the cult of Zeus from Hellenic worship of the 'bright sky' to the personified and anthropomorphised Zeus, the god of the sky. It focuses on the development of mountain-cults, religious syncretism with solar cults, and the importance of the sun, moon and stars to the worship of Zeus. Cook skilfully integrates both archaeological and ancient literary evidence as well as offering a synthesis of scholarly knowledge. This sumptuous work is a treasure-trove of primary texts, epigraphic material and archaeological data. It contains over 600 illustrations and the most important literary sources, both Greek and Latin, are quoted in full. It is an indispensable tool for students of classics, mythology and ancient religion.

Hardcover

First published January 1, 1940

Reviews

[Kurt R. · Rating 4 out of 5]

I used to spend my lunchtime at the Midtown NY Public library flipping through these volumes like an archeologist looking for hidden treasures and insights from thousands of years ago. I was lucky enough to purchase my own set from a UK auction a few years ago. It’s an ex library set with faded covers but the inside pages are almost like new. These volumes contain thousands of images, drawing and ketches of anything from marble fragments to entire building facades. The details of each piece and its relation to the God or story are meticulously recorded. You can find chapters on why Zeus is associated with clouds to orphic doctrines. An incredible resource tool.