FREN 1177 Lecture Notes - Lecture 2: Noria, Morigny, Middle Ages
Document Summary
Euhemerism is the theory that gods and goddesses are in fact historical characters who have been magnified by memory and transformed into superhuman beings through mythological retellings. The theory"s name comes from the greek writer euhemerus who first proposed it in 4th century. Conversely, the word euhemerism is used when supposedly historical characters appear to be ancient gods and goddesses who have been imported into mankind to make them seem more real. Texts were copied by monks from different cultures even without knowing what they meant. Franciscans and dominicans supposed to be wandering monks preaching the word of god to educate the people. Also meant to chastise the people, had no tolerance for uneducated people. Interpreted beliefs and superstitions of the people, figured they were sinners that needed to be punished. This is the name that the new monastic order founded by saint dominic chose for itself; the dogs of the lord are supposed to be hunters of heresy.
