Interpretation of the Biblical Story of Lucifer’s Rebellion and the Fall of Men and the Idea of Loyalty in Medieval Society

 
PIIS207987840031591-9-1
DOI10.18254/S207987840031591-9
Publication type Article
Status Published
Authors
Affiliation: Lomonosov Moscow State University
Address: Russian Federation, Moscow
Journal nameISTORIYA
Edition
Abstract

As one can see the story of Lucifer’s rebellion and the Fall of Men presented in the traditional Christian narratives differs radically from its Old Testament source. Early Christian authors regard the Fall of Angels and the Fall of Men as the examples of the sin of pride. From the 6th century the emphasis has shifted: the rebellion of Lucifer and the Fall of Men appear as a violation of loyalty to the ruler (God). As a result, religious didactic was replaced by a social one: the violation of the Order of Things was represented as a violation of the obligations of loyalty existed in medieval society. Interpretation of well known biblical narratives in a socio-political perspective might serve twofold goal. On the one hand, evident references to familiar political realities could made biblical episodes more understandable to audience. On the other hand, this narratives could contain in addition to moral and instructive, also an actual political message. A person who violated the obligations of loyalty or made the wrong choice in a situation of competing loyalties could be seen in this context as akin to a proud Archangel or fallen forefathers of Men. God severely punished such crimes, so the cruel deeds of the earthly rulers looked completely justified.

Keywordssocial functions of the texts, conflicting loyalties, early medieval Christian poetry, Old Testament homiletic
Received25.01.2024
Publication date15.07.2024
Number of characters26460
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