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Hesiod and Daimonification in the Archaicand Classical Periods
Litwa, Matthew
Litwa, Matthew
Author
Abstract
Chapter 1 treats Hesiod (early seventh century BCE), who envisioned the daimonification of the primal (golden) generation of humans. The golden generation was already close to the gods, the “model A” type of human. For Hesiod, it was important that the golden generation was righteous and good. After death, they became guardian daimones that granted gifts to humans. Hesiod also presented the daimonification of an individual, Phaethon. Phaethon represents a type of figure who obtained daimonic status owing to his beauty. Later, however, daimonification was linked with moral forms of excellence. Alcestis, a maiden from Thessaly, became a daimon by her supreme sacrifice, and Pythagoras was venerated as a daimon for his wisdom.
Keywords
Hesiod, daimon, Phaethon, Pythagoras, Alcestis, Rhesus, Darius, Evagoras, benefaction, golden generation
Date
2020
Type
Book chapter
Journal
Book
Posthuman Transformation in Ancient Mediterranean Thought : Becoming Angels and Demons
Volume
Issue
Page Range
21
Article Number
ACU Department
Institute for Religion and Critical Inquiry
Faculty of Theology and Philosophy
Faculty of Theology and Philosophy
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Open Access Status
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All rights reserved
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Controlled
Notes
© M. David Litwa 2021
This publication is in copyright. Subject to statutory exception and to the provisions of relevant collective licensing agreements, no reproduction of any part may take place without the written permission of Cambridge University Press.
This publication is in copyright. Subject to statutory exception and to the provisions of relevant collective licensing agreements, no reproduction of any part may take place without the written permission of Cambridge University Press.