Neuplatonische Mystik und Magie als Aktualisierungen des traditionellen Paganismus im Imperium Romanum

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to examine the philosophical update of Late Antique Graeco-Roman Religion in the attitudes, theories and proposals of Neoplatonic thinkers such as Plotinus, Porphyry, Iamblichus and Proclus. In the framework of the Late Roman state and society two main aspects of this Neoplatonic redefinition of «paganism» are studied here: mysticism and magic, through the religious reading of the Platonic «a scent to the Good» and the practice of theurgy. Moreover, the emphasis of some Neoplatonists such as Porphyry upon the mantic tradition is also analysed, with special regard to the oracular poetry. To sum up, this contribution shows in brief how Neoplatonism represents a renewal of Late A ntique Roman Religion upon the basis of tradition – both religious and philosophical – but also as a response and reaction to the new Christian ideas and milieu.