Description
Operation Tecla
Book Summary
An illustrated journey into the heart of the legend of Saint Thecla and her deep connection to the city of Tarragona. This book unveils the fascinating power maneuver that, for centuries, intertwined local history, religion, and politics to legitimize the archiepiscopal see. Through an entertaining and educational narrative, the reader will discover how the figure of the saint became the cornerstone of a strategy that culminated in the arrival of her relic in the 14th century, giving rise to celebrations that have endured for nearly 700 years. An ideal work for understanding the roots of a living tradition.
What is it about?
The book explores the construction of the myth of Saint Thecla as a tool of ecclesiastical and political power in medieval Tarragona. The narrative, which combines historical reality with elements of fiction, explains how the elites created a story around the saint's biography to strengthen the legitimacy of the archiepiscopal see. The peak of this operation is situated in the 14th century, with the arrival of Saint Thecla's reliquary arm from the East, an event received with grand popular festivities that, over time, were regulated and have survived to this day. The work covers everything from Thecla's life and the construction of the cathedral to the intrigues of archbishops, kings, and popes, offering a complete vision of how history and tradition merge.
Main themes
- The symbiotic relationship between the figure of Saint Thecla and the identity of Tarragona.
- The instrumentalization of hagiography for the purposes of political and ecclesiastical legitimation.
- The local history of medieval Tarragona, including the construction of its cathedral.
- The origin and evolution of the Saint Thecla festivals, a tradition nearly 700 years old.
- Power intrigues between the crown, the papacy, and the archbishopric in the Middle Ages.
Who is it recommended for?
This book is recommended for Tarragona residents and lovers of local history who wish to know the origins of their main festivity. It is also ideal for readers interested in medieval history, the relationship between religion and power, and the legends that shape the identity of peoples. Due to its illustrated and educational nature, it is accessible to any curious person who wants to understand why Saint Thecla is so important to Tarragona.
What this book offers
- A clear and documented explanation of the legend of Saint Thecla and its historical function.
- A unique perspective on how myths can be shaped by power over the centuries.
- A visual and illustrated tour through the history of Tarragona, its cathedral, and its traditions.
- Understanding the origin of the Saint Thecla festivals, from their inception to the present day.
Technical data
- Author: BLANCH, JOAN CARLES
- Publisher: Cossetània Edicions
- Language: cat
- Subject: MODERN AND CONTEMPORARY FICTION, LOCAL HISTORY
- Collection: TINTER
- Binding: Paperback
- Edition date: September 2022
- Number of pages: 128
- Weight: 705 g
Editorial review
This is an informative work that achieves a balance between historical rigor and narrative appeal. The illustrated and educational format makes it an excellent tool for bringing local history to a wide audience, from history buffs to readers looking to understand the traditions of Tarragona. The focus on the power "operation" behind the cult adds a layer of depth that goes beyond a simple festive chronicle, proving to be of great interest to those who appreciate history with a critical perspective.