by Glenn “Maghnus” Wright
Elysium, or the Elysian Fields, is a conception of the afterlife that evolved over time and was maintained by certain Greek religious and philosophical sects, and cults. Initially separate from the realm of Hades, admission to this glorious realm was originally reserved for mortals related to the gods and other heroes. Later, it expanded to include those chosen by the gods, the righteous, and the heroic, where they would remain after death, to live a blessed and happy life, and indulging in whatever employment they had enjoyed in life.
Interestingly, but not at all unexpected, Elysium as a pagan expression for paradise would eventually be adopted and incorporated by the early Christian writers. As with many names in Greek culture, adoption by first the Romans and then by Christianity was a foregone conclusion. The Elysian Fields have unfortunately found a place in our modern lives that many have no point of reference to relate with. Literature, art, television and movies are but a few instances that utilize the classical name.
In the beginning of the film Gladiator, General Maximus Decimus Meridius addresses his troops before a battle telling them they are in Elysium. “Three weeks from now, I will be harvesting my crops. Imagine where you will be, and it will be so. Hold the line! Stay with me! If you find yourself alone, riding in the green fields with the sun on your face, do not be troubled. For you are in Elysium, and you’re already dead!” This cross culture reference is indicative of the importance that Elysium or the Elysian Fields played in the cultures of our ancestry.
For those of us who subscribe to the Hellenic of Roman Hearth Cultures this is the epitomic reward for our service to the gods and goddesses in this life. It should not be something that is worked toward consciously but by following our Nine Virtues, performing sincere ritual, making appropriate and honest gifts, learning about and living earnestly in harmony and balance with our beliefs, it might be attained.
Bibliography
Gladiator. DreamWorks Pictures, May 5, 2000
