The Heliand, A Beautiful Happiness: Presenting Christ to the Early Medieval North

Author: Fr. G. Ronald Murphy

Format: Paperback

Pages: 120, black and white photos

In a richly rewarding interview, Fr. G. Ronald Murphy, S.J. explores the little-known early Christian epic, the Heliand. Composed for ninth-century Saxon tribes living along the North Sea coast of Germany, this poetic version of the life of Christ taken from the Gospels was recited in monasteries and mead-halls throughout Saxony. Uniquely in mission literature, Fr. Murphy reveals the fascinating cultural bridges that allowed northern Europeans to move from their cherished and deep-rooted mythology to a living Christian faith. An unparalleled look at how medieval societies made that change while remaining true to themselves.