HISTORY
The Letters of St. Patrick
TERM 3 FOCUS ON HN376
Wednesdays
Terry O'Hagan
The surviving letters of the historical St. Patrick represent the earliest documents known to have been written in Ireland. They provide a fascinating glimpse into the remarkable life and mind of the fifth century missionary who sought to extend Christianity beyond the fringes of Roman-Britain. In the process of documenting some of his experiences, Patrick inadvertently provides hints and clues concerning fifth century Ireland and Britain. His writings are therefore one of the most important historical and personal accounts to survive from a crucial turning point in late antiquity.
This course will provide an introduction to the writings of St. Patrick by placing the author and his texts within their historical, geographical, religious and social contexts. It will offer guided readings (in translation) of selected excerpts, with a special focus on the character and activities of Patrick. By examining the evidence of his ‘own words’, it will explore the methods and motivation behind his mission to Ireland, as well as some extraordinarily individual and intimate aspects of his personality. Finally, in studying his letters within their original contexts, it will consider some implications concerning the reality and character of early Irish Christianity.
| BELFIELD | ||
| 6 Wednesdays | April 17, 24, May 1, 8, 15, 22 | 7.30pm - 9.30pm |
| Fee €115 | Print Open Learning Application Form 2012.13 or ring (01) 716-7123 for Laser/credit card payment | |
Tutor Bio:
Terry O'Hagan has a BA in Archaeology & History and an MA in Landscape Archaeology. He is currently an Ad Astra doctoral scholar with the John Hume Institute for Global Irish Studies and UCD School of Archaeology. He specialises in early medieval Ireland, in particular early Irish Christianity; focusing mainly on Ireland's earliest ecclesiastical sites, features, rituals & landscapes alongside their associated texts and hagiographies.
Provisional list of key topics to be covered
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The Patrician letters
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The historical figure of Patrick
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Fifth Century Ireland
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Introduction of Christianity to Ireland
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Reading and evaluating primary documents (in translation)
Who is the course for?
This course will appeal to anyone who has an interest in early Irish history and in particular, those who wish to investigate one of the most important and influential individuals from early medieval Ireland. It will appeal to anyone wishing to explore the contemporary reality, personality and cultural background of the historical Patrick, prior to his subsequent elevation to national legend, saint and icon. As well as those wishing to utilise the evidence of primary sources in translation, it will also appeal to those who wish to study the motivation, psychology and experience of historical figures through their personal accounts.
Book List:
All primary documents available online.
