The Pagan World: Ancient Religions before Christianity Season 1 Episode 23 Popular Religions of Late Antiquity

The Pagan World: Ancient Religions before Christianity season 1 episode 23, titled "Popular Religions of Late Antiquity," delves into the various religious practices that flourished in the period between the 3rd and 7th centuries CE. The episode explores the diverse range of deities, rituals, and beliefs that were adopted by people in different regions of the world during this time, and how these practices evolved and influenced each other.

The episode begins by examining the Roman pantheon, which was the dominant religion in the Roman Empire during this period. Viewers are introduced to familiar gods like Jupiter, Apollo, and Mars, as well as lesser-known deities like Sol Invictus and Mithras. The show looks at the rituals associated with these gods, such as public sacrifices and private devotions, and how the cults of various deities were often merged or syncretized to create new religious practices.

Moving beyond Rome, the episode explores the religious practices of the Greeks, Egyptians, and Persians. Viewers learn about the Greek mystery cults, which offered initiates secret knowledge and promised a blessed afterlife. The show also looks at the Egyptian cult of Isis, which spread throughout the Roman Empire and appealed to people from all walks of life. The Persian religion of Zoroastrianism, which involved the worship of Ahura Mazda and the dualistic struggle between good and evil, is also examined.

The episode then turns its attention to the religious practices of the Germanic tribes, who lived in what is now Germany and Scandinavia. Viewers learn about the gods Odin, Thor, and Freyja, as well as the concept of the afterlife in Germanic mythology. The episode also explores the religious practices of the Celts, who lived in what is now Ireland and Scotland. Viewers learn about the druids, who were priests and teachers in Celtic society, as well as the various gods and goddesses worshipped by the Celts.

The episode then goes on to examine the rise of Christianity in the late Roman Empire. Viewers learn about the early Christian communities, their beliefs, and their persecution by the Roman authorities. The episode also explores how Christianity was able to become the dominant religion in the empire, and how it co-opted and assimilated many of the pagan religious practices that had come before it.

Finally, the episode looks at the legacy of these ancient religions, and how they have influenced modern-day religious practices. Viewers learn about the continued worship of many of the old gods and goddesses, as well as the revival of pagan religious practices in the modern era. The episode also explores how the legacy of these ancient religions can be seen in modern-day celebrations like Christmas and Easter.

Overall, "Popular Religions of Late Antiquity" is a fascinating glimpse into the diversity of religious practices in the ancient world, and how they have influenced the development of modern religions. The episode is sure to appeal to viewers interested in history, religion, and mythology.