Rhodes the Island, Rhodes the Polis: Religious Community and Synoecism

Abstract

Abstract This chapter explores the political shifts that the communities of Rhodes underwent in the synoecism of the late fifth century bc and how these established a new sense of regional and religious identity. It considers the evidence for pan-Rhodian identity and religion before this period, particularly the foundation myths, and explores their reception in the political climate of the fifth century bc. Next it lays out the sparse evidence for the Rhodian synoecism itself, and traces its impact on the religious calendar, the religious dimension of founding a new city and the introduction of new gods and cults, and finally the effect of social and political shifts on religious offices and organization.