Conversion of Pagans and the Evolution of Holy War Ideology : Assessing the Vulnerability of Mieszko’s Realm to Holy War

Journal article

von Guttner Sporzynski, Darius Maria Claudius. (2023). Conversion of Pagans and the Evolution of Holy War Ideology : Assessing the Vulnerability of Mieszko’s Realm to Holy War. Journal of the Australian Early Medieval Association. 19(2), pp. 169-194. https://doi.org/10.35253/JAEMA.2023.2.3
Authorsvon Guttner Sporzynski, Darius Maria Claudius
Abstract

This study revisits Mieszko I's Christianisation of his realm, juxtaposing it against the backdrop of Christian holy war ideologies, notably the evolution of the 'just war' doctrine. It scrutinises whether Mieszko's baptism in 966 stemmed from spiritual conviction or political expediency, and considers the implications of holy war ideologies for his realm. Employing a revisionist perspective, the study challenges traditional views of the crusades, suggesting a blend of spiritual motivation and political manoeuvring. Further, the research distinguishes between 'conversion' and 'Christianisation', highlighting the transformation from personal faith to societal change initiated by Mieszko. The role of his Christian wife, Dobrava, and the strategic establishment of the Polish bishopric are explored as factors in the Christianisation process. Conclusively, the findings suggest Mieszko's baptism was more politically motivated, with the holy war ideology influencing the Piast dynasty's later Christianising and expansionist policies. This compact analysis enriches our understanding of the intertwining of religious conversion, holy war ideologies, and state formation in medieval Europe.

KeywordsMieszko I; Christianisation; Holy War; Crusades; Just War; Conversion; Polanie; Latin Christianity
Year01 Jan 2023
JournalJournal of the Australian Early Medieval Association
Journal citation19 (2), pp. 169-194
PublisherAustralian Early Medieval Association Inc.
ISSN1449-9320
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)https://doi.org/10.35253/JAEMA.2023.2.3
Web address (URL)https://search.informit.org/doi/abs/10.3316/informit.T2024051000009601375842009
Open accessPublished as non-open access
Research or scholarlyResearch
Page range169-194
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All rights reserved
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Output statusPublished
Publication dates
PrintDec 2023
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Deposited12 Jul 2024
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© the author and Australian Early Medieval Association

Place of publicationAustralia
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