Seer

• A Seer, in the Ancient World, was a master of the art of Divination, as were the Oracles. The Seers, who were widespread and numerous, interpreted the signs sent by the Gods and gave a yes or no answer.
• The Oracle however, was in direct contact with the Gods and gave a Prophesy, but they were few and required a long journey to get to them.

History

• In Ancient Greece, Seers were always consulted by Greek Generals on both sides, prior to the commencement of battle.
• Therefore, they could have great influence on individuals, but a bad interpretation could be their downfall.

Difference between a Seer and an Oracle

• Both Seers and Oracles practised divination in the ancient world. The Oracles were few and required a journey to reach them.
• Seers interpreted the signs sent by the gods, but were not in direct contact with them. They could only give a yes or no answer.
• For a prophesy, men had to go to the Oracles, as these were in direct contact with the Gods.
• The Oracle at the Siwa Oasis in Egypt, was consulted by Alexander the Great.

Examples in literature

• At the beginning of Homer‘s Iliad, set during the Fall of Troy, a Seer named Calchas decides to risk speaking up, and reveals that the plague that is causing desolation in the Greek army is a retribution sent by Apollo and his priest Chryses.