a much needed book on Isis

This is a long overdue book that is much needed. Donaldson has taken a wonderful lengthy research and made it available to a wide range of readers, in this work.

In Part One, he discusses the origins of the Isis and Osiris story, and continues by describing the evolution of Isis as a goddess, mother and protector. Chapters of this section cover vocation, worship and public penance ; Isiac priests and priestesses ; Isiac feasts and events in the ever-changing calendar ; and Isiac temples.

In Part Two, he goes on with an explanation of each stage in the Isis Cult, and its evolution as Roman emperors succeeded each other is thoroughly analyzed. From the Late Republic to the Antonine Period, this book examines the development of the Isis cult in depth, covering the reigns of Antony, Cleopatra, Caesar, Augustus, Caligula, Domitian and Commodus.

Donaldson has put a lot of effort in finding the bibliographic material and the text shows this research. Although it does not have many photographs (it only has 6), the book will soon become a reference on the subject of Isis.

I encourage everyone to read this wonderful book. This is a definite must for anyone interested in Ancient Egyptian and/or Graeco-Roman religion.


10/10