#mithras #romanreligion #ancientrome #mithraism #mithraictemples #classicalantiquity #antiquity #paganism #cultofmithras #rudyardkipling #pagan #pagans

In this Sidequest, we cover the ancient Cult of Mithras with the expert on the subject matter, Dr. David Walsh. This cult spread pretty widely throughout the Roman Empire and has remained a topic of interest for historians, archaeologists and people with passing interest in Roman history (like me!). During our talk, we cover many topics including the pronunciation of Mithras (no agreed way!), how the cult spread throughout the Empire, how widespread it became, the causes of its decline, what our sources of the cult's information are and we dispel some myths about the cult including whether we should call it "Mithraism". We also cover the locations where you can see the remains of Mithraic Temples. Turns out that Dr. Walsh is an expert not just on the Cult of Mithras, but the London Mithraeum itself! If you are ever in London, you have to stop by if it's open. It's such a cool place.

While I enjoyed the entire interview, I found the reasons for the Cult's decline to be of particular interest. I think you will, too. And Rudyard Kipling wrote about Mithras. What else can you ask for? I mean, aside from me forgetting to mention the great John Huston movie, "The Man Who Would Be King". That film has a John Huston ending (an ending in which all the characters get exactly what they deserve) that is arguably one of his best. And that's saying something.

As for this episode's reading assignment, check out "Pantheon" which covers ancient Roman religious practices.

On the opening theme music, for now it’s from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):
https://uppbeat.io/t/kevin-macleod/folk-round
License code: SHTJJRTVTRXQAID1

Please call the pod (540-632-0160), leave a message and you’ll get in an episode. Let me know what you think about what we think in the comments or on Twitter.

And never forget that The Classical Antiquity Sidequest is a podcast without end.