Sunday, February 17, 2008

Lares et Penates atque Parentalia et D.M.

February seems to have been the season in Ancient Rome for commemorating the 'household gods' and also the shades of the departed ancestors. These memorials began during the Ides of February with the Parentalia for the ancestors. Followed by the Feralia and Carista. During this time all temples and government offices were closed and marriages forbidden.
Could 'Presidents' Day' be an echo of this in our time?
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lares

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manes

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Feralia

http://www.azcentral.com/ent/dead/history/

Jane Harrison is most enlightening in this dark area:
http://www.interactivereviews.com/product/0691015147

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