21st Annual Student Research Conference
Delphic Oracular Changes
Regina M. Loehr
Dr. Steven Reschly and Prof. Martha L. Rose, Faculty Mentors
The oracle of Apollo at Delphi held great significance in the ancient world. Its myths and legends played a role in shaping and solidifying the ancient Greek world. Looking at the processes and procedures of both the petitioners and the Pythia (the Delphic prophetess), and analyzing the questions and responses of different eras allows insight into ancient Greek values as they changed over time. Social, economic, and military accomplishments were displayed through architecture and statuary, and so at Delphi one can also view—as we did, when we visited the site in May, 2007 as part of the "Sacred Sites in Greece" Study Abroad course—the aesthetic changes in art and architecture of the ancient Greek city-states through their treasuries and donations. These aspects add up to make the oracle of Apollo at Delphi one of the most important unifying factors of ancient Greek civilization and culture.
Keywords: oracle, Delphi, Greek religion, Greek society, sacred site, Greek culture, Greek civilization, Apollo
Topic(s):Study Abroad
Presentation Type: Oral Paper
Session: 56-4
Location: OP 2111
Time: 3:30