Magic in the Ancient Greco-Roman World -Assignment 1

Using the texts we have studied in the collections of Gager and Betz as examples, create a curse tablet or erotic charm and then provide a commentary on the features of the spell. You should explain the context of the magic, the agent and the victim, and the means by which the magic operates (i.e., the standard What, Who, Where/When, Why, and How questions we have explored for the readings). Since the magical tradition in the Greco-Roman world operated by use of familiar elements complemented by competitive innovations, you should provide parallels for the features of your spell and its context from the examples in the readings, especially any voces magicae (magical words), deity names, or ritual actions that are part of the procedure. Make sure to include any oral components or ritual actions that are part of the spell as well as the inscribed or written component. Any protective measures, ritual preparations and purifications, or amulets that are needed should be both described and commented upon.

Your commentary should be 3-5 pages of printed text, given a double-spaced document with reasonable font and margins (e.g., this document is Palatino 12 pt. with 1" margins). Please proofread your papers carefully to ensure that they are free from annoying typographical, spelling, and grammatical errors. You should cite the parallels according to the bibliographic form, abbreviations and conventions used in Gager. You may include the spell itself in whatever format you deem best.

The assignment is due no later than the beginning of your discussion section on Thursday, February 22 or Friday, February 23. Any late assignments will be penalized by one grade for each 24 hour period they are late (including weekends). Extensions are negotiable only if you discuss the situation with me no less than 24 hours in advance.