What is it about?
In this paper, I analyze the references to the Eleusinian Mysteries in the speeches of Attic orators across three categories: (1) the significance of the Eleusinian Mysteries for the Athenians in particular and the Greeks in general, (2) mentions of priests or the Eumolpidai and Kerykes clans, and (3) narratives about acts of impiety committed against the Mysteries or the temples at Eleusis. My analysis will focus on the third category.
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Why is it important?
The evidence presented by the Attic orators shows that initiation into the Mysteries provided both integration into Athens' civic and religious community and an emotional connection to the site’s guardian goddesses. As a result, the profanation of these Mysteries is considered a very serious crime. In these speeches, the profanation of the Mysteries highlights the vital role of religion in the civic life of the community. Additionally, the repercussions of the sacrilegious acts of 415 BCE were so significant that they were rhetorically utilized in subsequent centuries. Each Greek orator presented a particular interpretation of the events, either to provoke a reaction or to sway public opinion. Their speeche would cast such a spell over sympathetic audiences that small errors and inaccuracies would be tolerated.
Perspectives
This paper reflects my participation in the international conference titled “Beyond Mysteries: The Hybrid History of Ancient Eleusis,” which took place at the University of Münster from September 30 to October 1, 2021. The conference was organized by Hans Beck and Sebastian Scharff and provided an excellent opportunity to examine the significant role of Eleusis in connecting the ancient world, as well as the undeniable importance of the Eleusinian Mysteries for the Athenians. Regarding the profanation of the Mysteries in 415 BCE, I conclude that Alkibiades’ involvement in this incident was used by Andokides to shift blame away from his own guilt. In reality, the Mysteries were profaned by members of the Athenian elite during private parties characterized by heavy drinking. These privileged Athenians viewed such behaviour as a symbol of class distinction and believed it brought blessings from the gods.
Priscilla Gontijo Leite
Universidade Federal da Paraiba
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: The Profanation of the Mysteries in the Attic Orators: between Rhetorical Use and Historical Evidence, February 2025, De Gruyter,
DOI: 10.1163/9789004719620_019.
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