Julian is often described—and not just by his militant opponents—as a fanatic; even if a tolerant or clement one. The charge refers first to his deep involvement in the mystical side of his religion. (Non-pagans tend to prefer paganism with a calmer, more philosophical face to it.) Secondly, Julian was thought to go too far—far too far—in the matter of prognostication. His world was crammed with pagan gods, all of whom had their different competences and specialisms, which had to be acknowledged and revered. There were oracles to be consulted, and many birds and animals to be slaughtered and
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