Instructor: Martin Wells
Description: In this experimental and experiential course, we will dive into the world of ancient Greek sacrifice. Through descriptions of offerings and sacrifices by ancient authors, we will learn about why sacrifice was central to Greek religion, what animals are acceptable to which gods, where sacrifices took place, who was allowed to make the sacrifices, and most importantly, the proper procedure for the sacrifice of the animal at the altar. It has to be done correctly for the gods to receive it! At the end of the course, we will put our knowledge to use in our own festival at the Austin College Lake Campus as we put the tail and the fat-wrapped thigh bone on the fire, honor for the gods and a meal for us, just as in antiquity- will the gods hear our prayers? NB – no animals will be killed in the course of this class, though we will be roasting and eating a lamb leg and tail bought from a butcher.
Course taken for a SDU grade only.
Meeting Dates: 01/02/2025 – 01/24/2025
Meeting Times: M-F 9:30AM – 1:30PM
Meeting Location: TBA
Section Requisites: None
Course Fee: $50
Out-of-Pocket Expenses: None