In some cases, there is evidence that these gods were accepted as real deities but rejected. Indeed, it was common for families or individuals to adopt specific gods they hoped would provide them with things like protection, fertility, strength, vitality, power, etc.

If Quintanus were a real person, his rejection of gods may not have included a disbelief that they were real. For him, “atheist” would have, quite literally, been “without gods.”

It’s always very difficult to evaluate an ancient culture since we’re always clouded by the lenses of our own. For you and I, atheist not only means “without god(s),” it also means that we believe everyone else is also without gods.

Still, I share your skepticism of Bonekickers. I finally just decided to let it go and enjoy the show.