Explore the fascinating world of ancient pagan religions in this 29-minute video from the series "The Pagan World: Ancient Religions before Christianity." Delve into the worship of Athena, Demeter, and Dionysus, examining the differences between public civic cults and secretive mystery religions. Learn about the Panathenaic Festival, the Eleusinian Mysteries, and the controversial worship of Dionysus. Discover the roles of mystagogoi, maenads, and the highest grades of initiation in these ancient practices. Investigate the polytheistic state's stance on various cults, the advantages of joining non-state cults, and compare mystery religions with early Christianity. Gain insights into the vibrant cultures that flourished for thousands of years before the rise of Christianity, and understand the complex relationship between religion and state in the ancient world.