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Explore the enigmatic cult of Mithras, the most famous mystery religion of the Roman Empire, in this comprehensive lecture by historian Ronald Hutton. Delve into the fascinating world of this secretive religious society that, despite being thought to originate from Persia, was actually developed by the Romans themselves and gained particular popularity in the northern regions of the empire, including Britain. Examine the archaeological evidence from Mithraic shrines, uncover the myths and legends surrounding this mysterious deity, and analyze the membership structure and ritual practices of these private worship societies. Discover how modern scholarship attempts to penetrate the veil of secrecy that deliberately shrouded these ancient mystery cults, while learning about the broader context of Roman religious practices and the role of mystery religions in imperial society. Gain insights into the archaeological discoveries, iconographic interpretations, and scholarly debates that continue to shape our understanding of Mithraism and its significance in the religious landscape of the Roman world.
