Mar 16, 2010

Bacchanalia


The Bacchanalia was a religious festival in honor of the wine god Dionysus or, as the Romans called him, Bacchus. The bacchanalia were originally held in secret and only attended by women. (Although it was later thought that some men were admitted to the festival early on.) The festivals occurred on March 16 and March 17. Later, admission to the rites was extended to men, and celebrations took place five times a month.

Dionysus is the ancient Greek god of wine, the inspirer of ritual madness and ecstacy, and a major figure of Greek mythology. He was also known as Bacchus, the name adopted by the Romans and the frenzy he induces. In addition to winemaking, he is the patron deity of agriculture and the theatre. He was also known as the Liberator, freeing one from one's normal self, by madness, ecstasy or wine.

In 186 BC the Senate decreed that the Bacchanalia were prohibited throughout all Italy except in certain special cases which must be approved specifically by the Senate. In spite of the severe punishment inflicted on those found in violation of this decree, the Bacchanalia survived in Southern Italy long past the repression.

Livy (the Roman historian) says that the rapid spread of the cult, which he claims indulged in all kinds of crimes and political conspiracies at its nocturnal meetings, led to the decree to prohibit the festivals. Some modern scholars who view the period with 21st century eyes doubt Livy's account and argue that the Senate acted against the Bacchants for one of the following reasons:

- Women occupied leadership positions in the cult (contrary to the patriarchical Roman values of the time).
- Slaves and the poor were the cult's members and were planning to overthrow the Roman government.

Although Bacchanalia doesn't get it's day or two on the calendar, I think it's a wonderful option to celebrate in lieu of St. Patrick's Day. I just can't drink green beer. But wine and revelry - absolutely. I'm not really up for the orgies and other debauchery that happenend in the 'good old days' but I think I can find enough to keep me suitably distracted!

Whatever you celebrate - Bacchanalia or St. Paddy's Day - do enjoy, and be safe!



(Information taken from www.wikipedia.com and www.about.com)

14 comments:

Judith said...

Every time women are in chage, men mess it up! we should start the festivaties again! GIGGLE

windchild said...

Wonderful information! I confess I don't know as much about the roman holidays. Thanks for sharing!

Oh, and Rue...TAG!!
I've tagged you! http://confessionsofacraftywitch.blogspot.com/2010/03/ive-been-tagged.html#comments

Mother Moon said...

I will indeed raise a glass to you today... happy St. patty's day to you

Bogaman said...

I've tagged you for Photo Tag. See my latest post. X.

Debra She Who Seeks said...

Hi Rue -- You're a popular girl right now! There's a Sunshine Award for you over at my blog -- see yesterday's post (March 16).

mxtodis123 said...

Thanks for sharing this story. I just love mythology.
Mary

the wild magnolia said...

Lá Fhéile Phádraig Shona Dhuit" to You!

May the Irish hills caress you.
May her lakes and rivers bless you.
May the luck of the Irish enfold you.
May the blessings of Saint Patrick behold you.

Chris 'Frog Queen' Davis said...

I am all over that....I prefer wine over green beer! Thanks for the info!!

Cheers!

jaz@octoberfarm said...

maybe some green wine? no, i don't think so! great story. i loved reading it.

Anonymous said...

I've also nominated you for the Sunshine Award!http://www.thedomesticwitch.com/2010/03/sunshine-award.html

Michelle said...

Oh Jen I've been away far too long! I love your new header!! And, as usual, I've learned something new from you. :) Thank you for coming by and wishing Q a happy birthday. He got his albacore tuna tonight. Lol!

xoxo

Lots of love and hugs...

HAPPYCRONE said...

Hey Babe! I don't get green beer myself, but a lovely Irish Whiskey, now that I can get my hands around! Catch you on the tree, later!

Dede said...

Thanks for sharing a great story! Sure hope that you enjoyed your St.Patrick's Day! How are things coming with your site? Looking forward to seeing it.

(((HUGS)))

Bridgett said...

Wine! Beer! It all sounds good to me. :)