Roman Renaissance

Rome had maintained a presence on Prydaín for several centuries, influencing the culture and politics of the island. Arthur himself was of Roman lineage, and had been educated by both Druids and Roman teachers. His family had been among the hundreds of Roman citizens who remained behind when the army left in 2344 (410 CE). His father Uther held many lands, and rose to control a significant portion in the war that followed Rome’s departure. Uther aggressively seized as much territory as he could claim in his lifetime, passing it to his son in 2374 (430 CE).

Rather than make war for more territory, Arthur proposed to his fellow lords that they follow the example of Eíre, whose people had enjoyed peace for many years under the rule of one High King. For thirty-three days the lords were said to argue, but were silenced when Arthur revealed that he held the legendary sword Caliburn, said to be the blade of the man destined to unite Prydaín and Eíre. Arthur was named King, the rival armies swearing allegiance to him. Knowing of the growing threat on the Continent, Arthur sought peace and unity with King Níall of Eíre. They agreed to free trade between their nations, and each pledged to defend the other from foreign invaders.

After the victory of Níall and Arthur over the invaders from the continent, Eíre and Prydaín experienced what is known as the Great Unification. This exchange of culture began when Arthur sent a dozen of his knights to serve in Níall’s court, and the Irish king did the same. Love and admiration of Arthur among Eíreanns was second only to the love and admiration they felt for their own king. Among bards the tales of Arthur were more numerous than those of Níall, and the legends of his noble knights were some of the most requested.

As a result of the unification after the victory over the Great Invasion, Eíre experienced a small “Roman renaissance.” Roads were built, connecting many major trade routes on the island. Villages and towns built irrigation systems, as well as windmills and mines. Culturally, the Latin language spread among the educated members of society, and the Gaelic of Eíre gained a written component. While Roman religion did not take hold in either Eíre or Prydaín, the tales of the gods and goddesses are known to most bards.