Roman religion was certainly a contract with the Gods, offering devotion and the blood sacrifices which 'nourished' them in exchange for their continued protection and for Rome's security and prestige. This 'contract' was a very real expectation that the gods were alive and aware, and that in return for human worship they could, and would, honour their part of the bargain. If this bargain was not honoured, then its nullity could bring disaster. This...