This paper contributes to the literature by exploring the intersection of Nicene Christianity, folk traditions, and historical upheaval during late Roman Britain, as reflected in the fictional narrative of The Hollow Vale. It provides an innovative lens for examining the role of faith, memory, and identity in shaping individual and communal resilience during a time of significant cultural transition.

By situating the narrative within the theological framework of Nicene Christianity, established through the Councils of Nicaea (325 AD) and Constantinople (381 AD), the paper bridges historical religious orthodoxy and everyday lived experiences. It demonstrates how Christianity adapted to the social and geographical specificities of Roman Britain, incorporating elements of Celtic folklore and rural traditions. The story of Caelwyn, a Patrician girl navigating both displacement and spiritual growth, serves as a microcosm for broader cultural dynamics, illustrating how theological teachings interacted with practical applications, such as herb-lore and oral memory preservation.

Furthermore, the paper engages with contemporary religious texts, such as the Psalms, alongside the philosophies of theologians like Augustine of Hippo and Ambrose of Milan, grounding the fictional narrative within authentic historical thought. By integrating academic reflections on Christian community-building, stewardship, and ritual adaptation, the study contributes to existing scholarship on the syncretism of Roman and Celtic beliefs in Britain during the decline of Roman influence.

Ultimately, this paper enriches the dialogue on historical fiction as a vessel for exploring academic themes, demonstrating how fictional narratives can illuminate the spiritual and cultural complexities of past societies. It invites readers to consider how memory, resilience, and faith have echoed across time, resonating through both historical and fictional accounts of survival and transformation.