Portable Christianity: relics in the Medieval west (c.700-c.1200)

Smith, J. M.H. (2012) Portable Christianity: relics in the Medieval west (c.700-c.1200). Proceedings of the British Academy, 181, pp. 143-167. (doi: 10.5871/bacad/9780197265277.003.0006)

Abstract

This paper uses the proxy evidence of relic inventories and labels to explore the role of relics in medieval Christianity. By means of an examination of their material nature, it argues that their primary characteristics were their fragmentary and often amorphous nature; their lack of intrinsic identification; and their easy portability. By emphasising that relic collecting was a habit that contributed to establishing religious identities and affiliations, the paper clarifies relics' role in relocating knowledge of Christian history into the homes and churches of medieval Europe. Finally, having noted that their dissemination followed established networks of travel and communication, it emphasises that relics rendered the essentials of Christianity tangible and portable.

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Smith, Professor Julia
• Authors: Smith, J. M.H.
• Subjects: D History General and Old World > D History (General)
• College/School: College of Arts & Humanities > School of Humanities > History
• Journal Name: Proceedings of the British Academy
• Publisher: Oxford University Press
• ISSN: 0068-1202