Superb popular history that undermines many of our preconceptions about Patrick and reveals several surprises. The search for 'the real Saint Patrick' has puzzled and intrigued scholars for centuries. How much can we really know about the life and times of Patrick? Why and how was the Patrick myth built up in the seventh century, and what was its influence on the development of Irish Catholicism? This book examines the original sources and undermines many of our preconceptions about Patrick. It includes new translations of the Muirchu life of Patrick and Patrick's own writings and other material from the seventh century relating to Patrick, as well as an extensive bibliography and resources for further reading.