Content area

Abstract

As paganism fell and Christianity took its place, elements of paganism began to be adapted into Christian forms. One such example of this appropriation is of the Greek god Hermes, whose functions were assimilated into those of Saint Michael the Archangel. Though the two have been studied separately in depth, there is a lack of research studying them together as analogous figures. This thesis undertakes study of Michael as a Christian saint whose functions grew and developed from those of Hermes, comparing and analyzing them through textual sources, physical objects, and iconography, focusing on their primary roles as psychopomps and protectors. I study the Greek and Roman origins of Christian elements pertaining to Michael, as well as to their broader categories of “angel” and “god.” I focus on ancient Greek perceptions of Hermes and medieval perceptions of Michael, primarily centered in the early Middle Ages. In this study, I argue not only that Michael was developed from Hermes, but also that, as Michael’s identity and function developed from an autonomous divinity, Michael’s own cult status elevated him to a point that he complicated the contemporary idea of a monotheistic Christianity.

Details

1010268
Literature indexing term
Title
Early Medieval Perceptions of Saint Michael the Archangel as Developed From Hermes
Number of pages
87
Publication year
2025
Degree date
2025
School code
0220
Source
MAI 86/11(E), Masters Abstracts International
ISBN
9798314881996
Committee member
Najork, Daniel; Smith, Joseph
University/institution
San Diego State University
Department
English
University location
United States -- California
Degree
M.A.
Source type
Dissertation or Thesis
Language
English
Document type
Dissertation/Thesis
Dissertation/thesis number
32000966
ProQuest document ID
3203136186
Document URL
https://www.proquest.com/dissertations-theses/early-medieval-perceptions-saint-michael/docview/3203136186/se-2?accountid=208611
Copyright
Database copyright ProQuest LLC; ProQuest does not claim copyright in the individual underlying works.
Database
ProQuest One Academic