![]() ![]() The revelries of Saturnalia were supposed to reflect the conditions of the lost mythical age. In Roman mythology, Saturn was an agricultural deity who was said to have reigned over the world in the Golden Age, when humans enjoyed the spontaneous bounty of the earth without labour in a state of innocence. In particular, the historical western European Christmas custom of electing a " Lord of Misrule" may have its roots in Saturnalia celebrations.Īncient Greek painting signed by "Alexander of Athens", discovered in Herculaneum, showing five women playing knucklebones, a game which was played during the Attic holiday of Kronia Saturnalia may have influenced some of the customs associated with later celebrations in western Europe occurring in midwinter, particularly traditions associated with Christmas, the Feast of the Holy Innocents, and Epiphany. ![]() The Neoplatonist philosopher Porphyry interpreted the freedom associated with Saturnalia as symbolizing the "freeing of souls into immortality". ![]() It held theological importance for some Romans, who saw it as a restoration of the ancient Golden Age, when the world was ruled by Saturn. Saturnalia was the Roman equivalent to the earlier Greek holiday of Kronia, which was celebrated during the Attic month of Hekatombaion in late midsummer. The poet Catullus called it "the best of days". The gifts exchanged were usually gag gifts or small figurines made of wax or pottery known as sigillaria. A common custom was the election of a "King of the Saturnalia", who gave orders to people, which were followed and presided over the merrymaking. The holiday was celebrated with a sacrifice at the Temple of Saturn, in the Roman Forum, and a public banquet, followed by private gift-giving, continual partying, and a carnival atmosphere that overturned Roman social norms: gambling was permitted, and masters provided table service for their slaves as it was seen as a time of liberty for both slaves and freedmen alike. Saturnalia is an ancient Roman festival and holiday in honour of the god Saturn, held on 17 December of the Julian calendar and later expanded with festivities through to 23 December. Public sacrifice and banquet for the god Saturn universal wearing of the pileus The poet Catullus, who loved this festival, called it “the best of days.Saturnalia (1783) by Antoine-François Callet, showing his interpretation of what the Saturnalia might have looked likeįeasting, role reversals, gift-giving, gambling ![]() Masters often waited on their slaves, gambling was permitted, and a “King of Saturnalia” could be declared to preside over general merrymaking, rather like a “Lord of Misrule”. Saturnalia offered a carnival-like atmosphere in Rome as the traditional order to things was turned upside down. they often shared small gifts, such as wax or clay figurines, but others exchanged gag gifts for a chuckle. The festival of Saturn started with sacrifices to the god, but the highlight was the banqueting and drinking with family and friends. ** This event will take place via MS Teams**Ĭlick here for how to get the MSTeams event link!Ĭontact Barb Chatwin if you have any Ancient Roman festival for Saturn in December just before the Winter solstice. We look forward to seeing you there, all are welcome! Make a Classics-related meme and share with the Brock Department of Classics Facebook page for a prize!.Bring a special festive snack and drink.Wear your finest ugly, festive sweater for a chance at winning a prize!.Join us for our 8th Annual SATURNALIA gathering online for 2020! Celebrate the end of term with virtual fun, games and prizes. ![]()
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