Schools of Gaul in the last century of the Western Empire : A study of pagan and Christian education in the last century of the Western empire

This study dives into the turbulent world of fourth‑ and fifth‑century Gaul, where the ancient Roman school system was caught between fading pagan traditions and the rise of Christian instruction. By examining curricula, teaching methods, and the social fabric of the time, the author reveals how educators navigated shifting political powers, linguistic changes, and the complex mix of Celtic, Roman, and Germanic influences that defined the region. The work highlights the enduring legacy of Roman pedagogy, showing how its structures survived the empire’s collapse and helped shape medieval learning.

Beyond the classroom, the book explores how notions of national identity and language policy played out in a society wrestling with its own diversity. Drawing parallels to modern debates about multicultural education, it offers insights into the psychological foundations of teaching that remain relevant today. Listeners will gain a nuanced picture of an era where education served as both a bridge and a battleground between old and new worldviews.