Pompeii Amulets LAR Flashcards
What is the main focus of “Lived Ancient Religion” according to Rüpke (2019)?
The focus is on what people actually do: everyday experiences, practices, expressions, and interactions related to and constituting religion, rather than on expert theologies, dogma, or institutional settings.
How does Rüpke (2015) define religion?
Religion is “the temporary and situational enlargement of the environment—judged as relevant by one or several actors—beyond the unquestionably plausible social environment inhabited by co-existing humans who are in communication.”
What was the estimated life expectancy at birth in Roman antiquity, and what factors influenced it?
Roman life expectancy at birth was around 25–30 years, with high infant mortality rates (about 40 per 1,000) requiring high fertility rates (around 5–6 children per woman) to maintain the population.
Who was the female demon “Gello” and what was she believed to cause?
Gello was believed to cause infertility, miscarriage, and infant mortality, possibly originating from the underworld demons of Sumeria-Mesopotamia.
What role did “Lamia” play in ancient mythology according to Strabo?
Lamia was a monster believed to specialize in devouring babies, with her story used to frighten and deter children.
What were the common types of amulets found in Room 8 in Pompeii?
The amulets included phallic and vulvar amulets, dog amulets, lunula amulets for girls, noisemakers (rings, coins, bells), and “Egyptian” amulets.
What was the purpose of phallic and vulvar amulets in ancient Roman culture?
These amulets were believed to bring about fertility, successful childbirth, and protect infants and children.
What was Serenus Sammonicus’s recommendation for a cure for teething in infants?
He suggested binding a horse’s first fallen teeth around a child’s neck as a remedy for teething.
What is the meaning of “memento mori” and how does it relate to Roman culture?
“Memento mori” means “Remember that you will die” and serves as a reflection on mortality, which was a theme present in various aspects of Roman life, including religious practices and objects like amulets.
According to Lived Ancient Religion perspectives, what was more important than mythologies in understanding amulets?
The properties attributed to the amulets, such as their alleged abilities to affect fertility, childbirth, and infant protection, were more important than the associated mythologies.
What factors were important for the ritual expertise regarding the use of amulets?
The specialist’s knowledge about which amulet to use for specific purposes, how it should be worn, by whom, and when was essential in their ritual use.
What kinds of objects were often worn or used as amulets to protect infants in ancient Rome?
Common objects included lunula for girls, phallic and vulvar amulets, dog amulets, and hematite stones, all believed to protect or aid in the well-being of infants.
