This thesis investigates the influence and legacy of the Alani, a nomadic group from the Northern Caucasus, within the broader context of post-Roman Europe, specifically focusing on the region of...Show moreThis thesis investigates the influence and legacy of the Alani, a nomadic group from the Northern Caucasus, within the broader context of post-Roman Europe, specifically focusing on the region of Armorica (modern-day Brittany and surrounding areas). The research aims to fill a significant gap in the scholarly understanding of how nomadic groups like the Alani contributed to the cultural and political landscape of early medieval Europe, a period often referred to as the "Dark Ages" due to the relative scarcity of written records and the perceived societal stagnation following the fall of the Roman Empire. The study is grounded in a multidisciplinary approach, drawing on historical, archaeological, and anthropological perspectives to create a comprehensive understanding of the Alani's role in shaping the socio-political dynamics of fifth-century Armorica. The research challenges traditional Eurocentric narratives that often marginalize or overlook the contributions of non-Roman and non-sedentary populations in the formation of early medieval European states. Instead, it highlights the importance of considering Inner Eurasian influences, particularly those from nomadic cultures, in the study of European history. The thesis begins by contextualizing the Alani within the broader framework of Inner Eurasian history, exploring the power dynamics between nomadic and sedentary societies. It delves into the ways in which nomadic groups, such as the Alani, integrated into and influenced the sedentary populations they encountered, often adopting a form of leadership that combined military prowess with elements of the sedentary cultures they governed. The study also examines the interaction between different nomadic groups, such as the Huns, Goths, and Franks, and how these interactions influenced the political landscape of post-Roman Europe. In the context of Armorica, the Alani are shown to have played a significant role in the region's defense and political organization during a time of considerable upheaval and transition. The research explores the archaeological evidence of Alanic presence in Armorica, including settlements, fortifications, and toponyms, which suggest a lasting legacy of their occupation. The thesis also investigates the social and cultural exchanges between the Alani and the Gallo-Roman population, revealing a complex process of cultural assimilation and adaptation that contributed to the emergence of a distinct Armorican identity. Through its analysis, the thesis argues that the Alani's influence in Armorica was not an isolated phenomenon but part of a broader pattern of nomadic impact on early medieval European societies. It posits that the legacy of the Alani, and similar groups, can be traced in the development of medieval institutions and cultural practices, particularly in the way power was exercised and legitimized in the post-Roman world. The study concludes by suggesting that a reevaluation of the Migration Period, through the lens of Inner Eurasian influences, offers new insights into the formation of medieval European societies and challenges the traditional notion of the "Dark Ages" as a period of cultural decline. This thesis provides a valuable contribution to the field of early medieval European history by highlighting the often-overlooked role of nomadic groups in shaping the political and cultural landscape of the time. It underscores the importance of adopting a more inclusive and global perspective in historical research, one that recognizes the interconnectedness of different regions and cultures across the Eurasian continent.Show less
In this thesis I have examined if and how indigenous religion in north-western Europe (specifically Roman Britain and northern Gaul) changed after the Roman colonization. The basis of my research...Show moreIn this thesis I have examined if and how indigenous religion in north-western Europe (specifically Roman Britain and northern Gaul) changed after the Roman colonization. The basis of my research is the idea that agriculture is a very important factor in shaping culture and religion. Ton Derks (1998) has stated that in northern Gaul, the southern territories were much more accepting of Roman religious customs because the agricultural basis of their society, namely arable farming, was the same as that of the Romans. In the north, were stockbreeding was much more important, people were much less accepting of Roman culture and as a consequence religious habits did not change much after the Roman conquest. In other words, the core of people's beliefs remained the same. I have applied this theory to Roman Britain, as the differences between the highland and lowland zones present us with a very similar agricultural division. This research has shown that, while indigenous religion and world views did become more Roman (especially in the areas were arable farming was more important than stockbreeding), native populations also attempted to preserve, or create new local traditions to retain their own identity. Such changes were not always directly related to local forms of agriculture, but areas were arable farming was dominant were far more susceptible to them than the more conservative pastoral zones.Show less
