The Influence of the Iliad on Religion and Mythology: Tracing the Roots of Greek and Roman Deity Worship

Introduction

The Iliad, an epic poem traditionally attributed to the ancient Greek poet Homer, is a foundational text in Western literature. It explores themes of heroism, honor, and the human condition during the Trojan War. While the historical existence of Homer remains a topic of scholarly debate, The Iliad is generally believed to have been composed in the 8th century BCE. Despite the uncertainties surrounding Homer's identity, his works have significantly influenced religious practices and mythological beliefs, particularly in ancient Greece and Rome.

The Origins of Greek Mythology

The roots of Greek mythology are closely tied to the influence of Babylonian and Assyrian cultures. According to The Religion of Babylonia and Assyria, these Semitic elements had a profound impact on early Greek mythology and cults. Scholars agree that these Semitic elements are primarily Babylonian in nature.

Greek religion, which lacked a sacred book, relied heavily on a vast repertory of stories learned in childhood. These stories, which often had multiple versions, allowed for a wide margin of interpretation. Key figures in the Iliad and Odyssey provided a rich source for Greek religious practices. Scholar G. S. Kirk noted that myth and religion overlap, making these texts integral to the religious beliefs of ancient Greeks.

The Role of Greek Myth in Religion

Greek religion was notably eclectic, drawing from various sources including Etruscan influences. The Hellenistic world adopted Egyptian cults such as those of Osiris, Isis, and Horus, which were later spread throughout the Roman Empire. This religious amalgamation enriched Greek beliefs, making them more diverse and complex.

Religion in ancient Rome was initially more pragmatic, with a focus on rituals and oaths rather than spiritual enlightenment. This changed as the Romans encountered new peoples and their deities. By the time of Alexander the Great, Greek mythology had become deeply integrated into Roman religious practices, leading to the Captive Greece took Rome captive sentiment expressed by Horace.

The Myth and Deity Worship of Alexander the Great

Alexander III, born in 356 BCE, was a quintessential Greek king who was heavily influenced by Homer. His lifelong passion for The Iliad and The Odyssey stemmed from his desire to emulate Greek heroes and gods. Alexander, known for his education under Aristotle and his vast conquests, was eventually deified, with religious honors attributed to him even after his death.

Following Alexander's visit to the oracle of the god Ammon, he was formally hailed as the son of Zeus, further cementing his mythical status. His legacy as a hero and god continued in Roman times, with Augustus emulating him as a political and religious figure. Augustus was not only a leader but also a divine symbol, incorporating Alexander's image in his signet rings and later being deified by the Roman Senate.

The Decline of Deity Worship in Mythical Religions

With the passage of time, the validity of ancient mythical religions became increasingly questioned. The Iliad, once seen as a source of moral and practical instruction, no longer holds the same appeal. Today, both the mythical gods of Mount Olympus and the human rulers of political thrones are viewed with skepticism. The phrase by Alexander, “How vain without the merit is the name,” encapsulates the decline of these deities.

The legacy of the Iliad, however, persists not only in its literary value but also in the way it shaped religious and cultural practices. Scholars continue to explore the profound impact of this epic poem on the world of myth and religion.