\paperw8295 \margr0\margl0 \plain \fs20 \qc \f1 \fs22 The Greeks, like the Romans, had a polytheistic religion, i.e. one in which many gods were worshipped. It was the
result of a long and complex process of development whose origin dates back to the time when human beings venerated the forces of nature. Around the second millennium BC, with the first migrations of peoples from the East, the Greeks came into contact wi
th and began to worship \b \cf1 \ATXht1 anthropomorphic\b0 \cf0 \ATXht0 deities, which were superimposed on the primitive indigenous cults. Initially these gods with a human appearance had a character that was more terrifying than benevolent, but they s
ubsequently took on a gentler aspect and assumed the role of protectors of public and spiritual life. As Greek civilization evolved over the course of the centuries, the religion underwent profound changes. In the historical period rites and ceremonies w
ere imported from the East. Myths and legends grew increasingly complex and complete and recurrent religious festivals became an important part of Greek life. Later much of the Greek religion was adopted by the Romans.
