GLOSSARY OF GREEK AND LATIN TERMS

Athanatos (pl. Athanatoi): “One Who Does Not Die” (an immortal).

Chiton: a long tunic worn in Ancient Greece.

Hiera: sacred objects.

Hierophant: head priest of a Mystery Cult, literally the “Revealer of Sacred Things.”

Kalathos: wool-gathering basket.

Katharsis: catharsis, from katharos, meaning “pure.” Release from strong or repressed emotions, often through experiencing tragedy in art or drama.

Kharisma: charisma, from karis, meaning “grace.” A talent conferred by the gods.

Kiste: a chest or box.

Kykeon: special potion drunk in the Eleusinian Mysteries.

Lararium: a shrine in Roman homes honoring the household gods or protective spirits (lares).

Makarites (pl. Makaritai): “Blessed One.”

Meandros: a decorative element common in ancient Greece, also called the “Greek key,” named after the twisting path of the Meander River.

Mystes (pl. mystai): an initiate into a Mystery Cult.

Sex crines: hairstyle of six braids worn by Roman brides, denoting virginity.

Thanatos (pl. thanatoi): “One Who Dies” (a mortal).