Maurizio Bettini Book order

What ancient polytheistic religions can teach us about building inclusive and equitable futures At the heart of this book is a simple comparison: monotheistic religions are exclusive, whereas ancient polytheistic religions are inclusive. In this thought-provoking book, Maurizio Bettini, one of today’s foremost classicists, uses the expansiveness of ancient polytheism to shine a bright light on a darker corner of our modern times. It can be easy to see ancient religions as inferior, less free, and remote from shared visions of an inclusive world. But, as Bettini deftly shows, many ancient practices tended to produce results aligned with contemporary progressive values, like pluralism and diversity. In Praise of Polytheism does not chastise the modern world or blame monotheism for our woes but rather shows in clear, sharp prose how much we can learn from ancient religions, underscoring the limitations of how we view the world and ourselves today.

Exploring the unique perspectives of ancient Greeks and Romans, this work delves into their distinct cultural narratives and symbols, offering insights into timeless issues like memory, identity, and morality. Maurizio Bettini presents intriguing interpretations of myths, proverbs, and literary masterpieces, revealing unexpected connections and discoveries. The book's scholarly yet accessible approach makes it suitable for classicists, students, and those interested in anthropology and art history, inviting readers to reconsider the classical world's impact on contemporary thought.