Animals and Sacred Bodies in Early Medieval Ireland: Religion and Urbanism at Clonmacnoise

John Soderberg's book explores how animals were essential for Clonmacnoise's development as a thriving settlement and sacred space, providing food, raw materials, and religious objects. He argues that animal encounters shaped the settlement's identity and created the sacred bodies of early medieval Ireland.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 262 pages
Publication date: 15 September 2023
Publisher: Lexington Books

Clonmacnoise, a remarkable site in early medieval Ireland, stood as one of the busiest, most economically complex, and profoundly sacred places. In his book, Animals and Sacred Bodies in Early Medieval Ireland: Religion and Urbanism at Clonmacnoise, John Soderberg makes a compelling argument that animals hold the key to understanding the remarkable development of Clonmacnoise as a thriving settlement and a sacred space. Situated on the banks of the River Shannon, this sanctuary city played a vital role in providing food and raw materials, utilizing the animal bodies that thrived in its surroundings. Moreover, animals were prominently featured on religious objects, adding an extra layer of significance to their role in this religious landscape.

Drawing from emerging theories that intersect religion and economics, Soderberg delves into the profound transformations that emerged from animal encounters. He explores how these interactions shaped Clonmacnoise into a sacred settlement and gave rise to the sacred bodies of early medieval Ireland. Through meticulous research and analysis, Soderberg sheds light on the intricate interplay between religion, society, and the natural world, offering a fresh perspective on the complexities of this period.

The book's insights are particularly relevant in understanding the role of animals in early medieval Ireland. Animals were not just sources of sustenance and materials but also held religious significance. They were believed to possess spiritual powers and could be used for divination, healing, and protection. The extensive depiction of animals on religious objects further emphasized their importance in this religious context.

By examining the interactions between humans and animals at Clonmacnoise, Soderberg sheds light on the complex web of beliefs and practices that characterized early medieval Ireland. He demonstrates how the sanctuary city became a focal point for religious and economic activities, drawing people from far and wide to participate in its vibrant community. The book's rich narrative and detailed analysis make it an invaluable resource for scholars and enthusiasts alike, providing a deeper understanding of the rich cultural and historical heritage of early medieval Ireland.

In conclusion, Animals and Sacred Bodies in Early Medieval Ireland: Religion and Urbanism at Clonmacnoise by John Soderberg is a groundbreaking work that offers a fresh perspective on the development of Clonmacnoise as a thriving settlement and a sacred space. Through his meticulous research and insightful analysis, Soderberg demonstrates how animals played a vital role in shaping the religious and economic landscape of early medieval Ireland. The book's insights are valuable for scholars and enthusiasts alike, providing a deeper understanding of the complex web of beliefs and practices that characterized this remarkable period.

Weight: 422g
Dimension: 233 x 154 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781793630414