DEAD MAN WALKING

Regarding the events surrounding the death of an individual, whether by natural means or homicide, it was normally conceded to the family of the deceased to deal with both the religious and legal matters concerning the situation. Nevertheless, as with many aspects of Athenian life, there existed tight statutory controls, particularly when homicide, whether accidental or deliberate, had occurred. A specific process was required to emphatically expunge any ritual pollution.

Gareth Williams

SPECIAL HANDLING HOMICIDES IN ANCIENT ATHENS Religious pollution was a genuine fear for the Athenians. Murderers made themselves unclean by provoking a premature death. The only recompense for such a heinous deed was the punishment of the killer. No one could forgive the murderer, or legally protect him from prosecution or punishment, except the victim. The Athenian orator, Demosthenes, explained: “If the victim himself, before his death, releases the murderer from blood-guiltiness, it is not lawful for any of the remaining kinsmen to prosecute” (37.59). Justice was satisfied by this arrangement. However, neglecting to avenge the deceased could attract the wrath of the gods, and not just upon the murderer. Such ritual ‘pollution’ (Greek: miasma, literally ‘a stain’) was viewed as an easily transferable contagion, both to individuals who consorted with…

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Ancient History (Digital) - 1 Issue, AH 48

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