Islandness, Inundation and Resurrection: A mythology of Sea/Land relationships in Mont Saint-Michel Bay

Mont-Saint-Michel Bay, renowned for its high tidal range, has experienced cyclical inundation and 'deislanding'—a process where the land is temporarily submerged or reclaimed. A recent study reveals that efforts to restore and affirm the bay's islandness are not merely practical but also deeply rooted in local and national mythology. This research identifies how the perception of Mont-Saint-Michel as an island, rather than a peninsular, has been mythologized over centuries, shaping its cultural significance. By analyzing historical narratives and contemporary conservation strategies, the study highlights the interplay between environmental dynamics and human perception, emphasizing the importance of preserving this unique landscape as both a natural asset and a symbol of resilience.

Fleury, C., & Raoulx, B. (2016). Islandness, Inundation and Resurrection: A mythology of Sea/Land relationships in Mont Saint-Michel Bay. Shima: The International Journal of Research into Island Cultures, 11(1). https://doi.org/10.21463/shima.11.1.04