The Cult of Mary: A History of the Virgin\u27s Origins to Modern Day Devotion

This paper researches the history of Mary the mother of Jesus and the various cults that have developed around her in different parts of the world. The paper is a historical and anthropological piece, with sections presented in chronological order. It begins with the New Testament scriptures (Gospels, Revelation), Apocryphal gospels, and early Christian debates about Mary’s role (i.e. the Councils of Nicaea & Ephesus). It then goes on to discuss Mary in the Quran and then the biblical Old Testament, with prefiguring female characters to Mary discussed. There are also cross-cultural, historical discussions about Mary and other religious mother goddess figures, as well as how Mary herself fits into the “goddess mindset.” More historical sections discuss Mary’s various roles in the Middles Ages & Renaissance and the later decline of devotion to her during the Reformation. Moving on to more modern times, the sections then cover various Marian apparitions and how Mary has become synced with other goddess figures outside of Christianity. The research concludes with a discussion of modern-day, Middle-Eastern Christians and Muslims interacting and worshiping together, drawn together by the common figure they share: Mary