«Θύραζε Κᾶρεσ, οὐκ ἔτ' ʼΑνθεςτήρια» Alexipharmaka e apotropaia nei rituali dei Choes ateniesi

Abstract

The second day of Anthesteria, corresponding to the ceremony of the Choes, is defined by lexicographical sources miara emera, a moment of terrible danger for the city. In fact, the souls of the dead haunt the city and roam its streets. On this day, the Athenians employ apotropaic rituals to ward off contamination. In particular, they chew hawthorn and seal the doors of the houses with pitch. Also the children have an important role in these ceremony, because in this occasion they become part of the community.