The presence of Christianity in Gaul in the 4th century. The Rise of Christianity in the cities of Gaul in the 4th century

The 4th century marks the beginning of Christianity in Gaul. During the first two decades of the 4th century, Christians were still persecuted by law but by the end of the century Christianity had become the state religion of the Roman Empire. This was not only possible because of the pro-Christian emperors, starting with Constantine I. but also because of changes in society. Christianity was not yet accepted everywhere, but the new religion became more and more prominent, especially in the cities. But how prominent was it compared to the state religion of the Roman gods? Gradually Christianity gained means to present itself in a better way. Aristocratic and wealthy families which had been converted to Christianity played an important role in that process. Christianity adjusted itself to the circumstances of the moment like inflation, invaders, emperors, usurpers, etc. and used them to its benefit. However, the circumstances are not the same for every city and every province....Show moreThe 4th century marks the beginning of Christianity in Gaul. During the first two decades of the 4th century, Christians were still persecuted by law but by the end of the century Christianity had become the state religion of the Roman Empire. This was not only possible because of the pro-Christian emperors, starting with Constantine I. but also because of changes in society. Christianity was not yet accepted everywhere, but the new religion became more and more prominent, especially in the cities. But how prominent was it compared to the state religion of the Roman gods? Gradually Christianity gained means to present itself in a better way. Aristocratic and wealthy families which had been converted to Christianity played an important role in that process. Christianity adjusted itself to the circumstances of the moment like inflation, invaders, emperors, usurpers, etc. and used them to its benefit. However, the circumstances are not the same for every city and every province. Regional differences are reflected in the degree of Christianization, the presence of a bishop, the presence and location of a church and other Christian buildings. This thesis looks at the question “How prominent was Christianity in the cities in Gaul during the 4th century?” In order to answer this question, the situations of Christianity and of the cities in Gaul need to be investigated shortly. The background of the 4th century is covered in chapters 3 and 4. Chapter 5 is devoted to the church buildings: what did they look like and where were they located? In chapter 6 the main players of Christianity are discussed: what functions did the clergy have and what status did the clergy – mainly focusing on bishops – have and which position did the laymen hold in Gaul in the 4th century? Chapter 7 puts all this information together and provides an overview of the Christian presence and prominence in every province, based on a list of all the cities in Gaul, which can be found in appendices V to XXI. The final chapter explores the pagan presence and prominence in the cities Gaul in the 4th century.Show less

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The presence of Christianity in Gaul in the 4th century. The Rise of Christianity in the cities of Gaul in the 4th century