Gone Medieval The Last Pagans
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May 20, 2025 Join Dr. Eleanor Janega and Dr. Francis Young, an expert on Europe's religious history and author of 'The Silence of the Gods,' as they delve into Lithuania's dramatic conversion to Christianity in 1387. They unravel the political intrigue, the impact of the Teutonic Knights, and the cultural clash that extinguished Europe's last pagan stronghold. Discover the unique blend of ancient pagan traditions with emerging Christian beliefs, the strategic alliance with Poland, and the complexities of faith and identity in this captivating historical narrative.
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Problematic 'Pagan' Label
- The term 'pagan' is problematic as it flattens vast religious diversity into one label.
- Many unchristianized groups practiced unique spiritual traditions far from Mediterranean paganism.
Lithuania's Complex Religious Politics
- The Grand Duchy of Lithuania was the largest polity in late medieval Europe with diverse religious groups.
- Politically, the ruling elite remained pagan to avoid dominance from Muscovy or the Teutonic Knights.
Jogaila's Baptism as Political Alliance
- Jogaila's 1387 baptism was a political alliance with Poland, not a mass religious conversion.
- Many Lithuanians were baptized superficially, attracted by free white robes, without understanding Christianity.