Roles of Delphi:


Source of Law


Source of Government


In Punitive Process:

Delphi & Herakles


Delphi & Orestes


Sources for Orestes


Delphi & Common Man


Homicide & Today


Bibliography

The Legal Influence of the Delphic Oracle

The Delphic oracle was not only consulted for a glimpse into the future, its advice was also utilized in the legislative process for both the drafting of laws, the formation of government, and for clarification during the punitive process. This is seen through both the literary record, and in the archaeological in the form of vases that depict and reinforce the stories from classical sources. Delphi was also instrumental in some famous homicides, which even impact some court cases of today.



(Illustration of Harvard 1960.367 shows Orestes at Delphi, he is portrayed with the Furies that have hounded him since he killed his mother, Clytaemnestra and beneath him is the omphale of Delphi. Apollo can also be seen approaching from the left.)


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