Solstice Fires: Ancient Rituals and Modern Climate Complaints
The article reflects on the upcoming summer solstice, connecting ancient traditions of bonfires and burning to contemporary climate grievances. It references the Greco-Roman concept of solstices as gates: the Janua Coeli (Gate of Heaven) and the Janua Inferni (Gate of Hell), the latter associated with the current solstice. The author suggests that the infernal aspect is more about the hot climate than the underworld, citing Lucian of Samosata's mockery of humans' perpetual dissatisfaction with weather—wanting summer in winter and winter in summer. The piece ties this to modern complaints amplified by climate change and urban development like asphalt and hard squares.
Key facts
- The article discusses the summer solstice and its cultural significance.
- Solstices are considered gates in Greco-Roman culture: Janua Coeli and Janua Inferni.
- The current solstice is associated with the Janua Inferni (Gate of Hell).
- Lucian of Samosata is quoted on human dissatisfaction with weather.
- Climate change and urban planning are mentioned as modern aggravations.
- The article references traditions of bonfires and burning during solstice.
Entities
Artists
- Lucian of Samosata