Croesus' lost shield and other marvellous objects

Mili, M. (2021) Croesus' lost shield and other marvellous objects. Kernos, 34, pp. 55-67. (doi: 10.4000/kernos.3843)

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Abstract

The paper discusses the new ‘Croesus’s dedication’ from Thebes. It argues that we should read this inscription independently from Herodotus text, and, thus, suggests a different restoration for lines 4–5 based on contemporary epigraphic forms. The article also examines why the shield of Croesus can cause marvel. It situates the epigram in the context of traditions about Croesus’s dedications in general, as well as traditions about other powerful objects. The power of the shield that Croesus has dedicated is not, I argue, that of a talismanic object, in the sense that its viewing has the power to affect the attitudes of the worshippers. Such traditions seem to be late in Greek culture. The shield of Croesus in the epigram is instrumental in confirming the power of Apollo Ismenios and making the truthfulness of his oracle manifest.

Item Type:Articles
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Mili, Dr Maria
Authors: Mili, M.
Subjects:B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BL Religion
D History General and Old World > DF Greece
College/School:College of Arts & Humanities > School of Humanities > Classics
Journal Name:Kernos
Publisher:Université de Liège
ISSN:0776-3824
ISSN (Online):2034-7871
Published Online:01 January 2021
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