The complex matter of Orphism has so far been addressed by scholars through studies focusing on
one of its components each time primarily the Derveni Papyrus and the Gold Tablets while the
text of the Orphic Rhapsodies has remained under-examined mostly due to its fragmentary nature
and the lack of a reconstruction. This book brings all of the major components of Orphism
together in one study in this way highlighting both parallels and divergences between them
and a wide range of non-Orphic sources referring to Orphic practices beliefs and texts. For
the complete analysis of the Orphic Rhapsodies a reconstruction of the text was necessary
which is included in this book along with a commentary and translation. This work proposes a
new definition of Orphism and it can constitute a whole-encompassing and concise guide for
scholars and students interested in Orphism. The reconstruction of the Orphic Rhapsodies could
also contribute on shifting the understanding of this work to new perspectives as it
demonstrates that the Orphic Rhapsodies was a more complex text rather than a single continuous
theogonic narrative as has been approached up to this date.
