The Christianisation of the Countryside

Paper Summary:

This paper discusses the conversion of the European countryside to Christianity, and looks at how far the countryside was actually converted and how far it remained a classical pagan society. It focuses on the work of individuals such as Martin of Tours and Caesarius of Arles and discusses the main methods of attempted conversion, in particular missionary work, temple smashing and church building and official legislation.

From the Paper:

"The demography and layout of both rural and urban areas was a vital part of the Christianising process. Again bishops and holy men played a vital role. In Egypt, rather than temple smashing, closures were the normal mode. In 385, 'Cynegius closed the temples and forbade sacrifices to Zeus.' Both Martin of Tours and Caesarius of Arles however advocated temple smashing 'Sulpicius Severus' Martin zealously carried the conversion offensive into the vici and pagi around Tours...Caesarius of Arles encouraged his congregation to destroy rural altars and sacred tress.' This destruction of temples often met with opposition from pagans, and was an aggressive tactic of converting people. There are several instances of people rebuilding temples after they had been destroyed, and this act of temple - smashing must have meant locals perceived Christianity as an aggressive, disrespectful religion. "

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