TikTok Unearths Bias in Medieval Accounts of Ireland

A recent TikTok video by RTÉ One sheds light on the controversial historical accounts of Gerald of Wales, who documented Ireland during the Norman invasion. His writings, viewed as heavily biased, paint a negative picture of the Irish, their lifestyle, and their social practices. The video features excerpts from Gerald's work, illustrating his scathing descriptions, such as referring to the Irish as "a wild and inhospitable people" who "live on beasts only and live like beasts." A historian interviewed in the video adds context, explaining that Gerald's accounts contribute to a pattern of colonial literature that justifies conquest by portraying the conquered as inherently inferior. "He gives accounts of Irish bestiality, trying to make the Irish seem as though they're semi-animal like themselves," the historian states. The video's use of medieval manuscripts adds visual interest, making it an accessible and engaging resource for understanding this complex historical perspective. This underscores the importance of critical analysis when interpreting historical sources and the lasting impact of colonial narratives.