What does the festival of Compitalia primarily honor?

The festival of Compitalia primarily honors the Lares, which are the protective deities of the household and the ancestors of a family. This festival was a time when the Romans would pay respects to the Lares by making offerings and conducting rituals at household shrines or altars, particularly during the winter months. The Lares were believed to oversee not just domestic life but also the health and prosperity of the family, and Compitalia was significant in fostering that connection.

In addition to honoring the Lares, the festival also involved a communal aspect where neighborhoods would celebrate together, highlighting the importance of community in Roman life. The festivities included processions and plays, further emphasizing the Lares' role as guardians of both the individual household and the wider community.

While household spirits may seem similar to the Lares, the Lares themselves are specifically revered during Compitalia. The other options, such as restless spirits and field gods, do not align with the primary focus of this particular festival, as they cater to different aspects of Roman religious practices.