Celtic Asceticism and Carolingian Authority in early medieval Brittany
Julia M. H. Smith
In the earlier Middle Ages, Brittany enjoyed a mixed reputation as region in which to lead life of ascetic discipline and dedication God. The (eleventh-century?) Life Me wan describes Samson his disciples leaving Britain for spiritual exile. They headed because, according hagiographer, was not only ‘desert’ where would be harsher than elsewhere, but also because ferocity its inhabitants made it crueller. Others were so sure whether this an advantage. Abelard’s tribulations abbot Saint-Gildas-de-Rhuys are well known: though himself originating from Bretagne gallo , he complained that Bretons bretonnante barbarian, lawless race, monks Saint-Gildas dissolute uncontrollable. comments echo long tradition French, or Frankish, castigation Bretons, stretching back at least ninth century. This criticism often expresses more hostility gens whose language them incomprehensible hence ridiculous: amongst tensions reflects problems Christian ecclesiastical authority Frankish church unable fully resolve. exploring behind Bretons’ bad reputation, is worthwhile investigating both practices early medieval reactions those church. doing, I hope elucidate my juxtaposition ‘Celtic asceticism’ ‘Carolingian authority’ by showing how Breton traditions modified under impact Carolingian political circumstances.
Studies in Church History