Satrae
In this article, we will explore the fascinating world of Satrae in detail. From its origins to its relevance today, we will delve into the history, evolution and different facets of Satrae. Through different approaches and perspectives, we will analyze its impact in various areas, as well as its influence on contemporary society and culture. In order to offer a broad and complete vision, we will address both historical and current aspects, providing the reader with a comprehensive overview of Satrae and its relevance in the current context.
The Satrae (Greek: "Σάτραι") were, in ancient geography, a Thracian people, inhabiting part of Mount Pangaeus between the rivers Nestus (Mesta) and Strymon (Struma).
According to Herodotus, they were independent in his time, and had never been conquered within the memory of man. They dwelt on lofty mountains covered with forests and snow, and on the highest of these was an oracle of Dionysus, whose utterances were delivered by a priestess.
They were the chief workers of the gold and silver mines in the district. Herodotus is the only ancient writer who mentions the Satrae, and Tomaschek regards the name not as that of a people but of the warlike nobility among the Thracian Dii and Bessi.
J. E. Harrison identifies them with the Satyri (Satyrs), the attendants and companions of Dionysus in his revels, and also with the Centaurs. The name Satrokentae, a Thracian tribe according to Hecataeus (quoted in Stephanus of Byzantium), seems to support the second identification.
The Greek Histories of Herodotus named the Satrae as a part of the Thrace tribes which lived in the Nestus and Strymin Valley (Book, VIO, 110), "have continued living in freedom" till his time, and "dwell on high mountains covered with forests of all kinds and snow, and they are excellent warriors".[1] Here, they "possess the place of divination sacred to Dionysus is in their highest mountains", questioning an oracle like the one of Delphi.[1]
References
- ^ a b "Herodotus, The Histories (Book VII, 111.1-2)". Project Perseus. Translated by A. D. Godley. Cambridge: Harvard University Press. 1920. Archived from the original on November 17, 2011.
- This article incorporates text from a publication now in the public domain: Chisholm, Hugh, ed. (1911). "Satrae". Encyclopædia Britannica (11th ed.). Cambridge University Press.
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