Question

Discuss the construction of extramural sanctuaries following the assimilation of smaller villages by proto-poleis.

A. Diminished importance of religious practices; focus shifted entirely to urban development.
B. Integration of smaller village sanctuaries into larger, centralized extramural complexes, reflecting the amalgamation of local cults. (Correct Answer)
C. Abandonment of sanctuaries as proto-poleis expanded, leading to a decline in religious activities.
D. Construction of individual, isolated temples within the city walls, excluding smaller villages from religious practices.

Answer 1

As proto-poleis assimilated smaller villages, there was an integration of village sanctuaries into larger extramural complexes, reflecting the unification of local cults and religious practices.

Step-by-step explanation:

During the process of assimilation of smaller villages by proto-poleis, there was a significant shift in religious practices and the construction of extramural sanctuaries. Rather than diminishing or abandoning religious activities, the construction of larger, centralized extramural complexes became common. These complexes often integrated the sanctuaries of smaller villages, reflecting an amalgamation of local cults and beliefs into a unified system of worship outside the main urban areas. This integration not only maintained religious practices but also symbolized the political and cultural consolidation occurring during this period.

Historically, as seen with the development of agriculture, surplus production enabled the specialization of occupations, including religious specialists, who could devote time to elaborate religious practices and the construction of significant religious monuments. Evidence from different parts of the world shows that as societies advanced, they often created more intricate religious systems and physical structures to accommodate and reflect these changes, such as the grand temples of the Greeks and grandiose sanctuaries of the Mississippian culture.