The famous games of ancient Greece originated from a fascinating belief held by their ancestors. These ancestors, likely of Aryan descent, believed that the spirits of the deceased found pleasure in the very activities that brought them joy during their mortal lives.
From Funerals to Festivals:
In the Heroic Age, these celebrations were simple affairs – contests and games held around tombs or funeral pyres. Over time, they evolved into religious festivals celebrated by entire cities or communities. The location often shifted to be near an oracle or shrine dedicated to a specific god, in whose honor the games were held. This shift reflected a new belief: the gods themselves were present at these festivals, taking delight in the competitions and displays of skill. This connection to the divine imbued these events with immense importance and sanctity.
A Transformation on a National Scale:
By the 6th century BC, these games transcended local significance and became national events. Four, in particular, rose to international prominence:
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