Richard J. Goodrich
- Published in print:
- 2007
- Published Online:
- October 2011
- ISBN:
- 9780199213139
- eISBN:
- 9780191695841
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199213139.001.0001
- Subject:
- Religion, Early Christian Studies
This book examines the attempt by the 5th-century ascetic writer John Cassian to influence and shape the development of Western monasticism. The book's close analysis of Cassian's earliest work (The ...
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This book examines the attempt by the 5th-century ascetic writer John Cassian to influence and shape the development of Western monasticism. The book's close analysis of Cassian's earliest work (The Institutes) focuses on his interaction with the values and preconceptions of a traditional Roman elite, as well as his engagement with contemporary writers. By placing The Institutes in context, the book demonstrates just how revolutionary this foundational work was for its time and milieu.Less
This book examines the attempt by the 5th-century ascetic writer John Cassian to influence and shape the development of Western monasticism. The book's close analysis of Cassian's earliest work (The Institutes) focuses on his interaction with the values and preconceptions of a traditional Roman elite, as well as his engagement with contemporary writers. By placing The Institutes in context, the book demonstrates just how revolutionary this foundational work was for its time and milieu.
Michele George (ed.)
- Published in print:
- 2005
- Published Online:
- January 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780199268412
- eISBN:
- 9780191708589
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199268412.001.0001
- Subject:
- Classical Studies, European History: BCE to 500CE
This book examines family life in the Roman empire and Italy, focusing on the influence of Rome on provincial family structure and attitudes towards family life as well as regional differences in ...
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This book examines family life in the Roman empire and Italy, focusing on the influence of Rome on provincial family structure and attitudes towards family life as well as regional differences in family structure, forms of marriage, and kinship patterns. The chapters cover Roman Egypt, Judaea, Spain, Gaul, North Africa, and Pannonia, and make use of both conventional textual sources and epigraphic evidence, as well as material that is less frequently treated, such as the medical writers and the Justinianic receipts. Notions surrounding the family are explored in the abstract and in reality, such as the idea of family as used in the forensic works of Cicero as a touchstone for elite morality, especially for men, and how the social family norms of pietas and affection informed the identity of the Roman nobility. A discussion of family portrait groups on Republican and early imperial funerary commemoration takes up the same set of attitudes toward family life and shows how the emerging urban middle class of Italy, former slaves in Rome and citizens of mixed origins in Cisalpine Gaul, used family imagery to position themselves in the mainstream culture. There is also a chapter on the harder side of ancient family life in a survey of diseases and treatments of illnesses, thus retrieving a sobering dimension of ancient experience which is radically different from the modern. The remaining chapters look at family life in the Roman world outside Italy in a systematic way focusing on specific regions.Less
This book examines family life in the Roman empire and Italy, focusing on the influence of Rome on provincial family structure and attitudes towards family life as well as regional differences in family structure, forms of marriage, and kinship patterns. The chapters cover Roman Egypt, Judaea, Spain, Gaul, North Africa, and Pannonia, and make use of both conventional textual sources and epigraphic evidence, as well as material that is less frequently treated, such as the medical writers and the Justinianic receipts. Notions surrounding the family are explored in the abstract and in reality, such as the idea of family as used in the forensic works of Cicero as a touchstone for elite morality, especially for men, and how the social family norms of pietas and affection informed the identity of the Roman nobility. A discussion of family portrait groups on Republican and early imperial funerary commemoration takes up the same set of attitudes toward family life and shows how the emerging urban middle class of Italy, former slaves in Rome and citizens of mixed origins in Cisalpine Gaul, used family imagery to position themselves in the mainstream culture. There is also a chapter on the harder side of ancient family life in a survey of diseases and treatments of illnesses, thus retrieving a sobering dimension of ancient experience which is radically different from the modern. The remaining chapters look at family life in the Roman world outside Italy in a systematic way focusing on specific regions.
Roger Rees
- Published in print:
- 2002
- Published Online:
- January 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780199249183
- eISBN:
- 9780191719431
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199249183.001.0001
- Subject:
- Classical Studies, Poetry and Poets: Classical, Early, and Medieval
This book relates the historical circumstances of five panegyrical speeches to survive from late antique Gaul to their literary characteristics and ideological perspectives. The years 289-307 saw ...
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This book relates the historical circumstances of five panegyrical speeches to survive from late antique Gaul to their literary characteristics and ideological perspectives. The years 289-307 saw great constitutional upheaval in the Roman Empire, with the various collegiate governments instituted by Diocletian. The speeches, preserved as part of the Panegyrici Latini collection, form part of the reaction and response of the Gallic aristocracy to the changing political environment. The five main chapters present in chronological sequence close readings of the Latin texts, in each case firmly grounded in the historical context, including constitutional and military developments. Rather than a medium of bland and enervating propaganda, panegyric itself is seen to be a flexible discourse, capable of nuance and change; through the speeches, Gallic loyalty to the various Roman emperors who held office at this time is seen to fluctuate.Less
This book relates the historical circumstances of five panegyrical speeches to survive from late antique Gaul to their literary characteristics and ideological perspectives. The years 289-307 saw great constitutional upheaval in the Roman Empire, with the various collegiate governments instituted by Diocletian. The speeches, preserved as part of the Panegyrici Latini collection, form part of the reaction and response of the Gallic aristocracy to the changing political environment. The five main chapters present in chronological sequence close readings of the Latin texts, in each case firmly grounded in the historical context, including constitutional and military developments. Rather than a medium of bland and enervating propaganda, panegyric itself is seen to be a flexible discourse, capable of nuance and change; through the speeches, Gallic loyalty to the various Roman emperors who held office at this time is seen to fluctuate.
John H. Starks
- Published in print:
- 2008
- Published Online:
- January 2009
- ISBN:
- 9780199232536
- eISBN:
- 9780191716003
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199232536.003.0005
- Subject:
- Classical Studies, Plays and Playwrights: Classical, Early, and Medieval
A discussion of the evidence that, even before the Byzantine period, there were also female pantomime dancers on the Roman scene. Despite the terminological confusion created by the variety of terms ...
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A discussion of the evidence that, even before the Byzantine period, there were also female pantomime dancers on the Roman scene. Despite the terminological confusion created by the variety of terms used to describe dancers in the ancient sources, certain unarguable instances of references to female pantomime performers may not be explained away. The chapter reviews the evidence from inscriptions, especially at Pompeii, and argues that a crucial piece of epigraphic evidence from Gaul has been overlooked. This gravestone celebrates a teenage girl named Hellas, who had worked as a pantomime dancer in the Julio‐Claudian or slightly later period, and was memorialised as such by her proud father Sotericus. The conclusion that women were also celebrated performers of pantomime has important implications for our understanding of Roman culture.Less
A discussion of the evidence that, even before the Byzantine period, there were also female pantomime dancers on the Roman scene. Despite the terminological confusion created by the variety of terms used to describe dancers in the ancient sources, certain unarguable instances of references to female pantomime performers may not be explained away. The chapter reviews the evidence from inscriptions, especially at Pompeii, and argues that a crucial piece of epigraphic evidence from Gaul has been overlooked. This gravestone celebrates a teenage girl named Hellas, who had worked as a pantomime dancer in the Julio‐Claudian or slightly later period, and was memorialised as such by her proud father Sotericus. The conclusion that women were also celebrated performers of pantomime has important implications for our understanding of Roman culture.
Penny MacGeorge
- Published in print:
- 2002
- Published Online:
- September 2007
- ISBN:
- 9780199252442
- eISBN:
- 9780191719233
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199252442.001.0001
- Subject:
- Classical Studies, European History: BCE to 500CE
This book reconstructs the careers of some of the men who shaped (and were shaped by) the last quarter century of the Western Empire. The difficult sources for this period have been analysed (and ...
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This book reconstructs the careers of some of the men who shaped (and were shaped by) the last quarter century of the Western Empire. The difficult sources for this period have been analysed (and translated as necessary) to produce a chronological account, and relevant archaeological and numismatic evidence has been utilised. An overview of earlier warlords, including Aetius, is followed by three studies of individual warlords and the regions they dominated. The first covers Dalmatia and Marcellinus, its ruler during the 450s and 460s. A major theme is the question of Marcellinus' western or eastern affiliations: using an often-ignored Greek source, this book suggests a new interpretation. The second part is concerned with the Gallic general Aegidius and his son Syagrius, who ruled in northern Gaul, probably from Soissons. This extends to AD 486 (well after the fall of the Western Empire). The problem of the existence or non-existence of a ‘kingdom of Soissons’ is discussed, introducing evidence from the Merovingian period, and a solution put forward. This section also looks at how the political situation in northern Gaul might throw light on contemporary post-Roman Britain. The third study is of the barbarian patrician Ricimer, defender of Italy, and his successors (the Burgundian prince Gundobad and Orestes, a former employee of Attila) down to the coup of 476 by which Odovacer became the first barbarian king of Italy. This includes discussion of the character and motivation of Ricimer, particularly in relation to the emperors he promoted and destroyed, and of how historians' assessments of him have changed over time.Less
This book reconstructs the careers of some of the men who shaped (and were shaped by) the last quarter century of the Western Empire. The difficult sources for this period have been analysed (and translated as necessary) to produce a chronological account, and relevant archaeological and numismatic evidence has been utilised. An overview of earlier warlords, including Aetius, is followed by three studies of individual warlords and the regions they dominated. The first covers Dalmatia and Marcellinus, its ruler during the 450s and 460s. A major theme is the question of Marcellinus' western or eastern affiliations: using an often-ignored Greek source, this book suggests a new interpretation. The second part is concerned with the Gallic general Aegidius and his son Syagrius, who ruled in northern Gaul, probably from Soissons. This extends to AD 486 (well after the fall of the Western Empire). The problem of the existence or non-existence of a ‘kingdom of Soissons’ is discussed, introducing evidence from the Merovingian period, and a solution put forward. This section also looks at how the political situation in northern Gaul might throw light on contemporary post-Roman Britain. The third study is of the barbarian patrician Ricimer, defender of Italy, and his successors (the Burgundian prince Gundobad and Orestes, a former employee of Attila) down to the coup of 476 by which Odovacer became the first barbarian king of Italy. This includes discussion of the character and motivation of Ricimer, particularly in relation to the emperors he promoted and destroyed, and of how historians' assessments of him have changed over time.
Bonnie Effros
- Published in print:
- 2003
- Published Online:
- March 2012
- ISBN:
- 9780520232440
- eISBN:
- 9780520928183
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- University of California Press
- DOI:
- 10.1525/california/9780520232440.001.0001
- Subject:
- Classical Studies, European History: BCE to 500CE
Clothing, jewelry, animal remains, ceramics, coins, and weaponry are among the artifacts that have been discovered in graves in Gaul dating from the fifth to eighth century. Those who have unearthed ...
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Clothing, jewelry, animal remains, ceramics, coins, and weaponry are among the artifacts that have been discovered in graves in Gaul dating from the fifth to eighth century. Those who have unearthed them, from the middle ages to the present, have speculated widely on their meaning. This book contributes to the study of death and burial in late antique and early medieval society with its long overdue systematic discussion of this mortuary evidence. Tracing the history of Merovingian archaeology within its cultural and intellectual context, the book exposes biases and prejudices that have colored previous interpretations of these burial sites and assesses what contemporary archaeology can tell us about the Frankish kingdoms. Working at the intersection of history and archaeology, and drawing from anthropology and art history, it emphasizes in particular the effects of historical events and intellectual movements on French and German antiquarian and archaeological studies of these grave goods. The discussion traces the evolution of concepts of nationhood, race, and culture and shows how these concepts helped shape an understanding of the past. It then turns to contemporary multidisciplinary methodologies and finds that we are still limited by the types of information that can be readily gleaned from physical and written sources of Merovingian graves. For example, since material evidence found in the graves of elite families and particularly elite men is more plentiful and noteworthy, mortuary goods do not speak as directly to the conditions in which women and the poor lived.Less
Clothing, jewelry, animal remains, ceramics, coins, and weaponry are among the artifacts that have been discovered in graves in Gaul dating from the fifth to eighth century. Those who have unearthed them, from the middle ages to the present, have speculated widely on their meaning. This book contributes to the study of death and burial in late antique and early medieval society with its long overdue systematic discussion of this mortuary evidence. Tracing the history of Merovingian archaeology within its cultural and intellectual context, the book exposes biases and prejudices that have colored previous interpretations of these burial sites and assesses what contemporary archaeology can tell us about the Frankish kingdoms. Working at the intersection of history and archaeology, and drawing from anthropology and art history, it emphasizes in particular the effects of historical events and intellectual movements on French and German antiquarian and archaeological studies of these grave goods. The discussion traces the evolution of concepts of nationhood, race, and culture and shows how these concepts helped shape an understanding of the past. It then turns to contemporary multidisciplinary methodologies and finds that we are still limited by the types of information that can be readily gleaned from physical and written sources of Merovingian graves. For example, since material evidence found in the graves of elite families and particularly elite men is more plentiful and noteworthy, mortuary goods do not speak as directly to the conditions in which women and the poor lived.
Andrew Cain
- Published in print:
- 2009
- Published Online:
- May 2009
- ISBN:
- 9780199563555
- eISBN:
- 9780191721250
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199563555.003.0007
- Subject:
- Religion, Early Christian Studies
Jerome's biblical exegetical letters traditionally have been valued by scholars for either their theological or prosopographical content. This chapter takes a different approach and examines case ...
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Jerome's biblical exegetical letters traditionally have been valued by scholars for either their theological or prosopographical content. This chapter takes a different approach and examines case studies of some of these letters, arguing that they were central components of Jerome's textual campaign to justify his authority as a biblical scholar during the Bethlehem years. Under investigation are: a dossier of correspondence to and about Jerome's Roman friend Fabiola and letters sent to the Gallic noblewomen Hedibia and Algasia answering their lists of questions about problematic New Testament passages.Less
Jerome's biblical exegetical letters traditionally have been valued by scholars for either their theological or prosopographical content. This chapter takes a different approach and examines case studies of some of these letters, arguing that they were central components of Jerome's textual campaign to justify his authority as a biblical scholar during the Bethlehem years. Under investigation are: a dossier of correspondence to and about Jerome's Roman friend Fabiola and letters sent to the Gallic noblewomen Hedibia and Algasia answering their lists of questions about problematic New Testament passages.
Penny MacGeorge
- Published in print:
- 2002
- Published Online:
- September 2007
- ISBN:
- 9780199252442
- eISBN:
- 9780191719233
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199252442.003.0010
- Subject:
- Classical Studies, European History: BCE to 500CE
This chapter explores whether there is any retrospective evidence in the early Merovingian period for the previous existence of a Gallo-Roman kingdom or enclave, based on Soissons. It is shown that ...
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This chapter explores whether there is any retrospective evidence in the early Merovingian period for the previous existence of a Gallo-Roman kingdom or enclave, based on Soissons. It is shown that there is only slight evidence from the Merovingian period for an earlier Roman enclave extending across North Gaul. However, the importance of the city of Soissons in the 6th century and the existence of royal estates in its territory indicate that a significant sub-Roman political base did exist in Soissons, though its geographical area may be smaller than envisaged by conventional models.Less
This chapter explores whether there is any retrospective evidence in the early Merovingian period for the previous existence of a Gallo-Roman kingdom or enclave, based on Soissons. It is shown that there is only slight evidence from the Merovingian period for an earlier Roman enclave extending across North Gaul. However, the importance of the city of Soissons in the 6th century and the existence of royal estates in its territory indicate that a significant sub-Roman political base did exist in Soissons, though its geographical area may be smaller than envisaged by conventional models.
Penny MacGeorge
- Published in print:
- 2002
- Published Online:
- September 2007
- ISBN:
- 9780199252442
- eISBN:
- 9780191719233
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199252442.003.0012
- Subject:
- Classical Studies, European History: BCE to 500CE
This chapter presents some conclusions regarding comparison in the preceding chapters: the conventional view of a kingdom of Soissons and James's alternative. It is argued that James's view of the ...
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This chapter presents some conclusions regarding comparison in the preceding chapters: the conventional view of a kingdom of Soissons and James's alternative. It is argued that James's view of the kingdom of Soissons as a modern construct is a negative argument, difficult to disprove, and the existence of a ‘Roman’ kingdom in North Gaul can no longer be taken for granted. However, this must not be summarily abandoned without further study.Less
This chapter presents some conclusions regarding comparison in the preceding chapters: the conventional view of a kingdom of Soissons and James's alternative. It is argued that James's view of the kingdom of Soissons as a modern construct is a negative argument, difficult to disprove, and the existence of a ‘Roman’ kingdom in North Gaul can no longer be taken for granted. However, this must not be summarily abandoned without further study.
Penny MacGeorge
- Published in print:
- 2002
- Published Online:
- September 2007
- ISBN:
- 9780199252442
- eISBN:
- 9780191719233
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199252442.003.0018
- Subject:
- Classical Studies, European History: BCE to 500CE
This chapter presents some conclusions based on the various studies of individual warlords in this book, and provides suggestions for further research. It is argued that a vital element in the course ...
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This chapter presents some conclusions based on the various studies of individual warlords in this book, and provides suggestions for further research. It is argued that a vital element in the course of events in the 5th century was a split between the eastern and western parts of the Roman Empire. The power of late 5th-century warlords was also hampered by military and financial inadequacies. There is also no satisfying explanation for the disintegration of the West's military superiority in the 5th century.Less
This chapter presents some conclusions based on the various studies of individual warlords in this book, and provides suggestions for further research. It is argued that a vital element in the course of events in the 5th century was a split between the eastern and western parts of the Roman Empire. The power of late 5th-century warlords was also hampered by military and financial inadequacies. There is also no satisfying explanation for the disintegration of the West's military superiority in the 5th century.
Penny MacGeorge
- Published in print:
- 2002
- Published Online:
- September 2007
- ISBN:
- 9780199252442
- eISBN:
- 9780191719233
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199252442.003.0006
- Subject:
- Classical Studies, European History: BCE to 500CE
This chapter presents a background of northern Gaul in the 5th century. The lack of sources for this period is underscored. Sources for Aegidius and Syagirius are evaluated.
This chapter presents a background of northern Gaul in the 5th century. The lack of sources for this period is underscored. Sources for Aegidius and Syagirius are evaluated.
Penny MacGeorge
- Published in print:
- 2002
- Published Online:
- September 2007
- ISBN:
- 9780199252442
- eISBN:
- 9780191719233
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199252442.003.0008
- Subject:
- Classical Studies, European History: BCE to 500CE
This chapter begins with a discussion of the kingdom of Soissons as appears in conventional scholarship and as redefined by Edward James. It then discusses evidence for Syagrius, Soissons, and ...
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This chapter begins with a discussion of the kingdom of Soissons as appears in conventional scholarship and as redefined by Edward James. It then discusses evidence for Syagrius, Soissons, and northern Gaul; the reliability of Gregory of Tours; and titles attributed to Aegidius and Syagrius.Less
This chapter begins with a discussion of the kingdom of Soissons as appears in conventional scholarship and as redefined by Edward James. It then discusses evidence for Syagrius, Soissons, and northern Gaul; the reliability of Gregory of Tours; and titles attributed to Aegidius and Syagrius.
Penny MacGeorge
- Published in print:
- 2002
- Published Online:
- September 2007
- ISBN:
- 9780199252442
- eISBN:
- 9780191719233
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199252442.003.0009
- Subject:
- Classical Studies, European History: BCE to 500CE
This chapter describes some of the relevant archaeological evidence concerning northern Gaul in the period of Aegidius and Syagrius, with particular reference to the city and region of Soissons. ...
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This chapter describes some of the relevant archaeological evidence concerning northern Gaul in the period of Aegidius and Syagrius, with particular reference to the city and region of Soissons. Topics covered include settlement and burial evidence, and numismatic data for late-5th-century Gaul.Less
This chapter describes some of the relevant archaeological evidence concerning northern Gaul in the period of Aegidius and Syagrius, with particular reference to the city and region of Soissons. Topics covered include settlement and burial evidence, and numismatic data for late-5th-century Gaul.
J. M. Wallace‐Hadrill
- Published in print:
- 1983
- Published Online:
- November 2003
- ISBN:
- 9780198269069
- eISBN:
- 9780191600777
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/0198269064.003.0001
- Subject:
- Religion, Church History
Looks at the Gallo–Roman religious experience as a heritage for the Frankish (Germanic) Church. In the 5th century, the Gallo–Roman churches (rather than a Church) were separate Christian communities ...
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Looks at the Gallo–Roman religious experience as a heritage for the Frankish (Germanic) Church. In the 5th century, the Gallo–Roman churches (rather than a Church) were separate Christian communities in cities, each under a bishop, and closely related to the structure of the late‐imperial administration; some had ancient origins from the days of persecution. This century was also an age of barbarian invasion and settlement in Gaul, in which the bishops, by and large, stood firm as protectors in the Roman tradition, although not as secular administrators (as their Merovingian successors would become). The various aspects of the period discussed in the chapter include, the radical bishops (who were mostly ascetics), saints, the cults of asceticism (monks) and relics, miracles as proof of sanctity, Rogation days (devised as a city's confession of guilt, probably in the 460s a.d.), and roles of the bishops in administration (in the diocesan sense) and as controllers of an impressive literary tradition. The last part of the chapter examines the role of Caesarius (bishop and metropolitan of Arles from 503 to 543) in the identification of a secular with a Christian community.Less
Looks at the Gallo–Roman religious experience as a heritage for the Frankish (Germanic) Church. In the 5th century, the Gallo–Roman churches (rather than a Church) were separate Christian communities in cities, each under a bishop, and closely related to the structure of the late‐imperial administration; some had ancient origins from the days of persecution. This century was also an age of barbarian invasion and settlement in Gaul, in which the bishops, by and large, stood firm as protectors in the Roman tradition, although not as secular administrators (as their Merovingian successors would become). The various aspects of the period discussed in the chapter include, the radical bishops (who were mostly ascetics), saints, the cults of asceticism (monks) and relics, miracles as proof of sanctity, Rogation days (devised as a city's confession of guilt, probably in the 460s a.d.), and roles of the bishops in administration (in the diocesan sense) and as controllers of an impressive literary tradition. The last part of the chapter examines the role of Caesarius (bishop and metropolitan of Arles from 503 to 543) in the identification of a secular with a Christian community.
J. M. Wallace‐Hadrill
- Published in print:
- 1983
- Published Online:
- November 2003
- ISBN:
- 9780198269069
- eISBN:
- 9780191600777
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/0198269064.003.0002
- Subject:
- Religion, Church History
The Franks, or any other Germanic people, were not pagan one day and Christian the next; this simple solution does no justice to the texts and is overthrown by archaeological evidence. Fifth‐century ...
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The Franks, or any other Germanic people, were not pagan one day and Christian the next; this simple solution does no justice to the texts and is overthrown by archaeological evidence. Fifth‐century Gaul was Christian and mostly Catholic in a formal sense, but behind the forms lay a scarcely converted countryside where Celtic and other pagan beliefs still worried the clergy, and remained active in the 6th and 7th centuries, not only in indigenous peoples, but also in the various settler enclaves; these pagan beliefs also affected the way the Franks accepted Christianity. This is one side of the picture; the other is the nature of Germanic paganism — no sense can be made of Frankish Christianity, when it comes, unless allowance is first made for the fact that all Germans were religious people, conditioned by the sense they had of good and evil, life and death, gods and demons. This can best be seen in the archaeological evidence from their remote homeland in a more distant time, and much can be inferred from later literary evidence. This chapter discusses Frankish (Germanic) interest in and worship of pagan gods and heroes (Woden, in particular), Frankish grave gods (and the grave gods of settlers, with which they can be easily confused), the new religion the Franks found and were converted to under Clovis (or Chlodovech), their conqueror from northern Gaul, who was himself a convert to Catholicism, and the difficulties in converting the people in the countryside, where there had been a fusion of Germanic and Celtic paganism.Less
The Franks, or any other Germanic people, were not pagan one day and Christian the next; this simple solution does no justice to the texts and is overthrown by archaeological evidence. Fifth‐century Gaul was Christian and mostly Catholic in a formal sense, but behind the forms lay a scarcely converted countryside where Celtic and other pagan beliefs still worried the clergy, and remained active in the 6th and 7th centuries, not only in indigenous peoples, but also in the various settler enclaves; these pagan beliefs also affected the way the Franks accepted Christianity. This is one side of the picture; the other is the nature of Germanic paganism — no sense can be made of Frankish Christianity, when it comes, unless allowance is first made for the fact that all Germans were religious people, conditioned by the sense they had of good and evil, life and death, gods and demons. This can best be seen in the archaeological evidence from their remote homeland in a more distant time, and much can be inferred from later literary evidence. This chapter discusses Frankish (Germanic) interest in and worship of pagan gods and heroes (Woden, in particular), Frankish grave gods (and the grave gods of settlers, with which they can be easily confused), the new religion the Franks found and were converted to under Clovis (or Chlodovech), their conqueror from northern Gaul, who was himself a convert to Catholicism, and the difficulties in converting the people in the countryside, where there had been a fusion of Germanic and Celtic paganism.
J. M. Wallace‐Hadrill
- Published in print:
- 1983
- Published Online:
- November 2003
- ISBN:
- 9780198269069
- eISBN:
- 9780191600777
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/0198269064.003.0004
- Subject:
- Religion, Church History
An analysis is made of the attitude of the early Merovingians towards monasticism in Gaul, of what they did to further it, and of the nature of monasticism in these times. The topics discussed ...
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An analysis is made of the attitude of the early Merovingians towards monasticism in Gaul, of what they did to further it, and of the nature of monasticism in these times. The topics discussed include the Rules for monks and nuns, the expectations of founders and benefactors, the reasons for adopting the religious life, and the influence of Columbanus (who came from Ireland) at the close of the 6th century. The flourishing of monastic life in this period owed most to Columbanus, but would also have been impossible without the active patronage of the Merovingian family, who founded and endowed many monasteries. Merovingians of the 7th century also encouraged monasticism in practical ways, establishing major foundations intended to make a major changes in north‐west Francia and launch a formidable missionary drive on the northern frontiers. Merovingian Frankish missionaries also penetrated and settled the Rhine area and east from it into Germany among Germanic people who were not Franks, and some of whom were pagan, and thence to Bavaria; and wherever monastic colonizers settled under royal or aristocratic patronage there were the beginnings of a new social stability.Less
An analysis is made of the attitude of the early Merovingians towards monasticism in Gaul, of what they did to further it, and of the nature of monasticism in these times. The topics discussed include the Rules for monks and nuns, the expectations of founders and benefactors, the reasons for adopting the religious life, and the influence of Columbanus (who came from Ireland) at the close of the 6th century. The flourishing of monastic life in this period owed most to Columbanus, but would also have been impossible without the active patronage of the Merovingian family, who founded and endowed many monasteries. Merovingians of the 7th century also encouraged monasticism in practical ways, establishing major foundations intended to make a major changes in north‐west Francia and launch a formidable missionary drive on the northern frontiers. Merovingian Frankish missionaries also penetrated and settled the Rhine area and east from it into Germany among Germanic people who were not Franks, and some of whom were pagan, and thence to Bavaria; and wherever monastic colonizers settled under royal or aristocratic patronage there were the beginnings of a new social stability.
J. M. Wallace‐Hadrill
- Published in print:
- 1983
- Published Online:
- November 2003
- ISBN:
- 9780198269069
- eISBN:
- 9780191600777
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/0198269064.003.0006
- Subject:
- Religion, Church History
An account is given of the councils and synods of Frankish Gaul from the Merovingian period. For this period, there are surviving canons (or decisions) from over twenty councils in which more than ...
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An account is given of the councils and synods of Frankish Gaul from the Merovingian period. For this period, there are surviving canons (or decisions) from over twenty councils in which more than one province was represented, and from two provincial councils and one diocesan synod. The circumstances of these, and the characteristics of the canons passed, are described in the context of the Church and secular history of the time.Less
An account is given of the councils and synods of Frankish Gaul from the Merovingian period. For this period, there are surviving canons (or decisions) from over twenty councils in which more than one province was represented, and from two provincial councils and one diocesan synod. The circumstances of these, and the characteristics of the canons passed, are described in the context of the Church and secular history of the time.
J. M. Wallace‐Hadrill
- Published in print:
- 1983
- Published Online:
- November 2003
- ISBN:
- 9780198269069
- eISBN:
- 9780191600777
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/0198269064.003.0007
- Subject:
- Religion, Church History
The relationship between the Merovingian Frankish Church and the papacy is examined from the time of the first Frankish settlers. It is found to have carried on in a similar manner to that between ...
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The relationship between the Merovingian Frankish Church and the papacy is examined from the time of the first Frankish settlers. It is found to have carried on in a similar manner to that between the Gallo–Roman Church and the papacy — spasmodic contact, although there was communion, affection, mutual respect and recognition of papal authority. Aspects discussed include patrimony (as exemplified by the Provençal patrimony) and the liturgical usages of northern Gaul (including the sacramentary, and the practical guides to liturgical performance — the Ordines Romani).Less
The relationship between the Merovingian Frankish Church and the papacy is examined from the time of the first Frankish settlers. It is found to have carried on in a similar manner to that between the Gallo–Roman Church and the papacy — spasmodic contact, although there was communion, affection, mutual respect and recognition of papal authority. Aspects discussed include patrimony (as exemplified by the Provençal patrimony) and the liturgical usages of northern Gaul (including the sacramentary, and the practical guides to liturgical performance — the Ordines Romani).
J. M. Wallace‐Hadrill
- Published in print:
- 1983
- Published Online:
- November 2003
- ISBN:
- 9780198269069
- eISBN:
- 9780191600777
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/0198269064.003.0008
- Subject:
- Religion, Church History
Looks at the vast accessions of property that reached the churches and monasteries of Frankish northern Gaul from southern and eastern Gaul (which were gradually becoming under Merovingian control) ...
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Looks at the vast accessions of property that reached the churches and monasteries of Frankish northern Gaul from southern and eastern Gaul (which were gradually becoming under Merovingian control) from the 6th century, often causing serious hostility in their areas of origin. The ever‐accumulating wealth of the Frankish Church is then illustrated by tracing the fortunes of the greatest of all Frankish monasteries, the abbey of St Denis of Paris. This stood on the Gallo–Roman property of Catulliacus, where the bones of St Denis, the martyred first bishop of Paris, rested. The abbey at first benefited enormously from Frankish gifts, but later, under the general political disintegration of the late 7th century (which started with the Austrasian magnate Pippin II winning control of Neustria in 688, and led eventually in 751 to the start of the Carolingian period), suffered both gains and losses. The abbey finally became Carolingian after the death of Mayor Charles Martel (the illegitimate son of Pippin II), who had his son Pippin III, the first Carolingian king, educated there.Less
Looks at the vast accessions of property that reached the churches and monasteries of Frankish northern Gaul from southern and eastern Gaul (which were gradually becoming under Merovingian control) from the 6th century, often causing serious hostility in their areas of origin. The ever‐accumulating wealth of the Frankish Church is then illustrated by tracing the fortunes of the greatest of all Frankish monasteries, the abbey of St Denis of Paris. This stood on the Gallo–Roman property of Catulliacus, where the bones of St Denis, the martyred first bishop of Paris, rested. The abbey at first benefited enormously from Frankish gifts, but later, under the general political disintegration of the late 7th century (which started with the Austrasian magnate Pippin II winning control of Neustria in 688, and led eventually in 751 to the start of the Carolingian period), suffered both gains and losses. The abbey finally became Carolingian after the death of Mayor Charles Martel (the illegitimate son of Pippin II), who had his son Pippin III, the first Carolingian king, educated there.
Henry Chadwick
- Published in print:
- 2001
- Published Online:
- November 2003
- ISBN:
- 9780199246953
- eISBN:
- 9780191600463
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/0199246955.003.0047
- Subject:
- Religion, Church History
The doctrinal writings of Pelagius (c.360–420), ‘the first known British writer’, raised fundamental and perennial questions about the nature of sin and faith and the meaning for Christians of living ...
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The doctrinal writings of Pelagius (c.360–420), ‘the first known British writer’, raised fundamental and perennial questions about the nature of sin and faith and the meaning for Christians of living an authentic moral life. His ideas on free will and the possibility of avoiding sin aroused the hostility of Augustine, who was led to extreme expression of the opposing view. Pelagius attracted supporters, the most vocal of whom was Caelestius, who made a particular impression in North Africa. The controversy over Pelagianism became embroiled with Pope Zosimus’ autocratic attitude towards the churches in Gaul and North Africa in 417–18 and continued during the papal schism after his death. Supporters of Pelagius, who had been condemned as heretical by councils in 416 and 418, were harassed in Gaul in the 420s.Less
The doctrinal writings of Pelagius (c.360–420), ‘the first known British writer’, raised fundamental and perennial questions about the nature of sin and faith and the meaning for Christians of living an authentic moral life. His ideas on free will and the possibility of avoiding sin aroused the hostility of Augustine, who was led to extreme expression of the opposing view. Pelagius attracted supporters, the most vocal of whom was Caelestius, who made a particular impression in North Africa. The controversy over Pelagianism became embroiled with Pope Zosimus’ autocratic attitude towards the churches in Gaul and North Africa in 417–18 and continued during the papal schism after his death. Supporters of Pelagius, who had been condemned as heretical by councils in 416 and 418, were harassed in Gaul in the 420s.
