As Athens developed its democracy, it "translated" this eastern symbol of sovereignty into a protector of its own laws and archives, effectively claiming the goddess as a symbol of the sovereignty of the people .
Munn argues that the Mother of the Gods (Kybebe/Kybele) was originally a Phrygian and Lydian goddess associated with absolute kingship (tyranny). The Mother of the Gods, Athens, and the Tyranny...
Some scholars, while acknowledging it as a major work, find Munn's reconstructions of the Mother Goddess's persona to be speculative . Others have reservations about his handling of archaeological evidence versus literary sources. As Athens developed its democracy, it "translated" this
Overall, the book is considered a fundamental study for those interested in the intersection of , Greek-Persian relations , and the origins of political sovereignty . The Mother of the Gods, Athens, and the
Are you interested in a deeper look at the or the historical figures Munn uses to build his case? The Mother of the Gods, Athens, and the Tyranny of Asia
Reviewers on sites like Bryn Mawr Classical Review and Amazon describe the work as "brilliant," "revolutionary," and "resourceful" for its ability to interconnect seemingly disparate facts into new historical vistas.