

Curses! Sarah Veale on Roman ‘Curse-Tablets’
Sep 7, 2022
This podcast explores the Roman 'curse-tablets' and their similarities with other ancient magical practices, such as Jewish incantation-bowls. It discusses the role of the Roman state and the cult of Magna Mater, as well as the itinerant priests known as the galley. The podcast also delves into the cultural practices of the gala, including ritual castration, and compares curse tablets with votive offerings in ancient traditions.
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
1 2 3 4 5 6
Introduction
00:00 • 2min
Ancient Curse Tablets and Temple-Based Curses
01:34 • 2min
The Roman State and the Cult of Magna Mater
03:19 • 6min
The Galley: Itinerant Priests of Magna Mater in Ancient Rome
09:02 • 2min
Cultural Practices of the Gala: Ritual Castration and Laceration
10:55 • 2min
Cursing and Votive Offerings: A Comparative Study
12:57 • 14min