Surviving the War of 894–896: Responses in Two Old Bulgarian Hagiographical Texts
Surviving the War of 894–896: Responses in Two Old Bulgarian Hagiographical Texts

Summary/Abstract: A substantial proportion of the medieval accounts regarding Bulgarian-Byzantine relations during the early medieval period comprises numerous records of mutual enmity, confrontation, warfare and battles. Most of these primary sources have already been introduced to the academic milieu and analyzed in depth by modern scholars. Nevertheless, ongoing scholarly efforts and the variety of recent contributions clearly demonstrate that there is room for new research and achievements. These include interdisciplinary studies concerning the portrayal of supernatural intervention and the role of warrior saints. The strong and persistent interest in the veneration of warrior saints and the religious practices associated with them in both Byzantium and its Balkan Orthodox neighbors is beyond doubts. This interest is of twofold significance – it advances the development of Byzantine studies, and provides a good example and solid ground for tracing the spread of this type of veneration and saintly cults in Bulgaria after the Conversion in 864.

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