In Dionysus on the Other Shore, Letizia Fusini re-examines Gao Xingjian’s post-1987 theatre as a form of tragedy.

Courtney J. P. Friesen explores shifting boundaries of ancient religions by way of the reception of a popular tragedy, Euripides' Bacchae. As a play staging political crises provoked by the arrival of the foreign god Dionysus and his ecstatic cult, audiences and readers found resonances with their own cultural moments. This dramatic deity became emblematic of exuberant and liberating spirituality and, at the same time, a symbol of imperial conquest. Thus, readings of the Bacchae frequently foreground conflicts between religious autonomy and political authority, and between ethnic diversity and social cohesion. This cross-disciplinary study traces appropriations and evocations of this drama ranging from the fifth century BCE through Byzantium not only among pagans but also Jews and Christians. Writers variously articulated their religious visions over against Dionysus, often while paradoxically adopting the god's language and symbols. Consequently, imitation and emulati on are at times indistinguishable from polemics and subversion.

Delve into the enigmatic world of Dionysus, the god of ecstasy and revelry, in "The Mysteries of Dionysus." This captivating book explores the multifaceted aspects of Dionysus, unraveling the myths, rituals, and influences surrounding this deity, whose legacy continues to mystify and inspire. The Origins of Dionysus: Tracing the Mythological Roots Embark on a journey through time as you trace the mythological origins of Dionysus, uncovering the tales and legends that have shaped his identity. The Dionysian Cult: Exploring the Ancient Worship Practices Discover the secrets of the Dionysian cult, where worshippers engaged in fervent and often unconventional rituals to commune with their god. Dionysus and Wine: Symbolism and Rituals Uncover the symbolism of wine in the worship of Dionysus and the rituals that celebrated its transformative power. The Thiasos: Unraveling the Mysteries of Dionysian Processions Explore the vibrant processions of the Thiasos, where followers of Dionysus engaged in ecstatic revelry and dance. Dionysus in Art and Literature: Depictions and Interpretations Examine the rich history of Dionysus's portrayal in art and literature, from ancient Greek masterpieces to modern interpretations. Dionysus and Theater: The Birth of Tragedy Discover how Dionysus played a pivotal role in the birth of Greek tragedy and the development of theater. Dionysus and Ecstasy: Understanding the Divine Madness Delve into the concept of divine madness and the profound influence it had on the worshippers of Dionysus. Bacchic Revelry: Unleashing the Wild Side of Dionysian Celebrations Experience the wild and uninhibited Bacchic celebrations that honored Dionysus, challenging societal norms. The Dionysian Mysteries: Initiations and Secret Rites Peer into the secretive world of Dionysian mysteries and the initiation rituals that transformed the lives of the initiated. Dionysus and Gender: Exploring the Fluidity of Identity Unearth the fluidity of gender and identity in the worship of Dionysus, where traditional boundaries blurred. Dionysus and Transformation: The Power of Metamorphosis Explore the transformative power of Dionysus, where his influence led to personal and societal metamorphoses. Dionysus and Nature: The Connection to the Earth and the Environment Understand the deep connection between Dionysus and nature, where the god's influence extended to the environment. Dionysus and the Other Gods: Relationships and Interactions Examine Dionysus's relationships and interactions with other gods in the Greek pantheon, shedding light on his divine presence. Dionysus in Non-Greek Cultures: Influence and Adaptation Witness the spread of Dionysian worship beyond Greece and its adaptation in various cultures around the world. The Legacy of Dionysus: Contemporary Celebrations and Interpretations Discover how Dionysus's legacy continues to thrive in contemporary celebrations and interpretations, influencing art, culture, and spirituality. Unveil the mysteries of Dionysus and embark on an intellectual and spiritual journey into the heart of this god of ecstasy. "The Mysteries of Dionysus" invites you to explore the multifaceted facets of a deity whose influence transcends time and culture, offering profound insights into the human experience.

"Representing some of the most fruitful recent approaches to the phenomenon of Dionysus and well illustrated, this book will be essential reading for students and scholars of classical literature and ancient history, the history of ancient religion, art history, classical philology, and archaeology." -- Back cover

As the perpetual stranger Dionysos is the embodiment of strangeness. He is nowhere at home, and yet in another sense the world is his home. Detienne evokes the manic activity of Dionysos in myths that connect him with the shedding of blood, the pouring of wine, and the ejaculation of semen.