Making the 'Mellifont Conspiracy': The Influence of Traditional Irish Monasticism in the Irish Cistercian Houses, 1142-1233

Posted: 4 Dec 2013

Date Written: March 1, 2009

Abstract

This paper examines the affect of lingering native Irish cultural and ecclesiastical elements on Irish houses of continental monastic orders, with a focus on Mellifont Abbey, the first Cistercian house in Ireland. It goes on to assess the so-called "Mellifont Conspiracy" -- a violent early thirteenth-century clash between the Irish Cistercian houses and the Cistercian General Chapter -- in light of the cultural and political conflicts between the native Irish and Anglo-Norman communities, particularly in border regions.

Keywords: Peace and Conflict Studies, Ireland, Monasticism, Religion and Society, Ethnic Studies, Borders, Conspiracy, Cultural Studies, Medieval History, Nationalism

Suggested Citation

Jacob, Katherine, Making the 'Mellifont Conspiracy': The Influence of Traditional Irish Monasticism in the Irish Cistercian Houses, 1142-1233 (March 1, 2009). Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=2363096

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