Hekate in Ancient Greek Religion

by Ilmo Robert Von Rudloff, Rob Von Rudloff

The book covers both how much and how little is known about the goddess Hekate, drawing from both the archeological record and from literature. The author also covers the cultures in which Hekate is independent and those in which she appears to be combined or confused with another deity.

Genres: Mythology, Nonfiction, History, Spirituality, Religion, Witchcraft, Paganism

176 pages, Paperback

First published July 1, 1999

Reviews

[Celeste · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fascinating and frustrating. There's so little we actually know based on evidence, literary and archaeological. Applause to the author for such a thorough examination.

[Michael Sautter · Rating 3 out of 5]

You may know Hekate as a Goddess of the new moon, crossroads, underworld and dark magic but this book explores her origins where she was much different. Though it seems never more than a minor Goddesss, Hekate was close to Zeus and a companion to other major Gods and Goddesses including Artemis and Apollo. She was a guardian and companion, and also known as a "light bringer" (torches were frequently associated with her). The author speculates on how she transitioned to the dark Goddess in later years.

This book grew out of the author's M.A. thesis in Classics. The first few chapters are a bit dry reading, like a text book, but the subsequent chapters are more readable as are the discussion sections at the end of each chapter.

[Judy · Rating 4 out of 5]

The author covers both how much and how little is known about the goddess Hekate, drawing from both the archeological record and from literature. Covered are her roles and relationships to other deities, and how those changed both over time and by location of her worshipers. The author also covers the cultures in which Hekate is independent and those in which she appears to be combined or confused with another deity. It's a short, readable book, informative and interesting, yet seems to thoroughly cover the material.

[Rebekah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Extremely well written, well researched. The author did an excellent job both pointing out possible assumptions and avoiding completely groundless ones. Thoroughly enjoyable read right up to the last paragraph when he couldn't resist cleverness. And if I wasn't recovering from a painful surgery I might have gotten a giggle out of it. Humor levels low. Highly recommended.