Paganism in Late Roman Hispania in Martin of Braga’s De Correctione Rusticorum

This paper examines the persistence of pagan practices in sixth-century Hispania through an analysis of Martin of Braga's De correctione rusticorum and related historical sources. The study investigates how Christianity, despite its significant expansion from the fourth century onward, coexisted with traditional religious practices well into the sixth century. Through a detailed examination of ecclesiastical sources, particularly the works of Martin of Braga and Caesarius of Arles, this research demonstrates that the Christianization process was more complex and gradual than previously assumed. The paper begins by exploring the historical context of Late Antique Hispania, examining the transition from Roman to Germanic rule and the early establishment of Christianity in the region. Special attention is given to the Council of Elvira (early fourth century) as a crucial point in the institutionalization of Christianity in Iberia. The core analysis focuses on De correctione rusticorum, written between 572 and 574 AD, revealing how rural populations maintained pre-Christian customs despite formal Christianization. By comparing Martin's pastoral approach with that of Caesarius of Arles, the study illustrates broader patterns of religious synthesis across different regions of the post-Roman world. The findings suggest that rather than a straightforward replacement of pagan practices, the Christianization process involved complex interaction between ecclesiastical authorities and local traditions, particularly in rural areas.