Mythography | Foreign Gods and Goddesses in Myth and Art

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Foreign Gods and Goddesses

As the Roman Empire spread to embrace territories outside of Italy, the Romans came into increasing contact with foreign ideas, philosophies, and especially religions. Indeed, later Roman religion is saturated with foreign influences, from the Greek gods of Olympus, to the following deities. Included are examples from the mysterious and intriguing east, as well as from Egypt (which had evolved a venerable and sophisticated religious system). The rate at which new deities and cults were adopted by Romans is a testament to the cosmopolitanism of the sprawling Roman Empire.

Attis | male partner of the goddess Cybele; although human, he is included here because his myth forms a significant part of the cult of Cybele

Cybele | "great mother" goddess; originally from Phrygia

Isis | Egyptian goddess whose cult became popular in the Roman Empire

Mithras | god of soldiers and armies, who was originally from Persia; known to his followers as the "lord of light"

Serapis | god associated with the cult of Isis; his cult features Greek and Egyptian elements

Sol Invictus | "the unconquered sun"; eastern god introduced to Rome by the emperor Elagabalus

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Who's Who in Classical Mythology

This book is a great source for information about Greek and Roman mythology! Organized alphabetically, this who's who features information about over 1200 of the most intriguing characters from Classical myth and legend.

The Bibliography

If you want more recommended resources for information about Greek myths, visit the books section - it lists books about mythology, art, literature, and more.

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