The Role of Oracles and Divination in Roman Culture

In ancient Roman society, the quest for divine guidance played a pivotal role in shaping decisions, both personal and political. The Romans firmly believed that the gods communicated their will and intentions to mortals through various means, one of the most significant being oracles. Additionally, a rich tapestry of divination methods enabled the Romans to seek insight into the future and understanding of their circumstances—practices integral to the spiritual life of the Republic and later, the Empire.