Meaning: The quote "Christianity has made of death a terror which was unknown to the gay calmness of the Pagan" by Ouida, a pseudonym for the English novelist Maria Louise Rame, reflects a comparison between the attitudes towards death in Christianity and Paganism. Ouida, known for her romantic and melodramatic novels, often expressed her critique of societal norms and religious beliefs in her works. This quote suggests that Christianity has instilled a fear of death that was absent in the carefree acceptance of death in Pagan cultures.

In the context of the quote, "gay calmness" refers to the peaceful acceptance of death in Pagan societies, where death was often viewed as a natural part of life and integrated into their belief systems. Pagan cultures, such as those in ancient Greece and Rome, had a more cyclical view of life and death, believing in the continuity of existence beyond the physical realm. This perspective fostered a sense of tranquility and acceptance towards the inevitable end of life.

On the other hand, Christianity, with its emphasis on sin, judgment, and the afterlife, has contributed to a sense of fear and apprehension surrounding death. The concept of heaven and hell, as well as the idea of facing divine judgment, has created a more apprehensive attitude towards death in Christian societies. The fear of the unknown, coupled with the belief in eternal consequences, has transformed death into a source of anxiety and dread for many adherents of the Christian faith.

Ouida's observation raises questions about the psychological and cultural impact of religious beliefs on the perception of death. It invites a reflection on how different religious frameworks shape individuals' attitudes towards mortality and the afterlife. The quote also underscores the contrast between the carefree acceptance of death in Pagan cultures and the apprehensive outlook fostered by certain interpretations of Christian teachings.

From a historical and anthropological perspective, the quote prompts an exploration of the diverse cultural and religious attitudes towards death throughout human history. It highlights the influence of religious beliefs on shaping societal perceptions and rituals surrounding death, mourning, and the afterlife. The comparison between Pagan and Christian views on death invites a deeper examination of how these contrasting perspectives have influenced individual and collective experiences of mortality.

In conclusion, Ouida's quote encapsulates a thought-provoking comparison between the attitudes towards death in Christianity and Paganism. It sheds light on the contrasting emotional and psychological landscapes that these religious traditions have cultivated in relation to mortality. The quote invites contemplation on the profound influence of religious beliefs on shaping human perceptions of death and provides an opportunity for further exploration of the cultural, historical, and psychological dimensions of this fundamental aspect of human existence.