Bureau of Lost Culture A Short History of The Pagan
Jun 25, 2023
Ethan Doyle White, an academic specializing in medieval history and modern paganism, explores the roots and beliefs of contemporary pagan practices. He discusses the fascinating etymology of 'pagan' and traces its evolution from pre-Christian traditions. The conversation delves into the resurgence of paganism during the 1960s counterculture and the influence of figures like Dion Fortune. Ethan also highlights the connections between pagan rituals and modern festivals, revealing how ancient beliefs persist in today's cultural landscape.
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Origins Of The Word Pagan
- The term "pagan" originated as a Latin word meaning a rural or civilian person and was first used by Christians as a pejorative label.
- Christians used it to mark those outside their faith, creating a long-standing rhetorical divide between "us" and "them".
Military Metaphor Helped Shape Pagan
- Paganus also meant a civilian, contrasting with soldiers, which early Christians used metaphorically as miles Christi.
- This military-civilian distinction likely helped transform a local term into a religious slur.
Conversion Was Gradual And Adaptive
- Christian conversion often mixed coercion and acculturation, taking decades or centuries to settle.
- Early Christian practice adapted to local ritual sites and meeting places rather than instantly replacing local customs.
