Path to Christendom: The transition from paganism to Christianity within Ireland

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Authors
Rozmin, Sarah
Advisor
Suppe, Frederick
Issue Date
2022-05
Keyword
Degree
Thesis (D.A.)
Department
Honors College
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Abstract

Today, the majority of Ireland’s population remains Roman Catholic. In the midst of rising trends of Atheism, the country itself is considered one of the last Catholic strongholds among European nations. However, in a different time period, the population of Ireland were staunch pagans. After examining other examples throughout Europe and the stories of early martyrs, one may believe the transition of Ireland to a Christian nation was violent and bloody. In truth, the transition was majorly peaceful. This piece not only analyzes how the nation of Ireland took up Christianity with such a fervor, but also why this new religion appealed to the inhabitants of the Green Isle.