ABSTRACT

In Greece, unaffiliated 'impresarios of the gods' were less limited by cultic traditions and autonomous in many of their choices. In contrast, prophetic priests in institutionalised centres were usually selected by the authorities and had to abide to a strict code of behaviour. Enquirers in the oracles based on direct encounter with the divine had to respect the rules of the shrine and prepare for the awesome experience according to custom, but almost everyone could apply. Due to the accessibility of these oracular centres, many Greeks of both sexes either lived through or witnessed prophetic mania ensuing from direct contact with a deity, at least once in their lifetime. From the point of view of the diviner, indirect divination required technical knowledge, sensitivity to the social environment, and astuteness, qualities that are inborn or acquired by the seer and may be retained throughout his or her life.