According to legend, St. Patrick drove the snakes out of Ireland during his mission to convert the Irish people to Christianity in the 5th century. This story is often used to explain the lack of snakes in the country, as well as Patrick’s influence. However, scientists have debunked this story, noting that Ireland has never had snakes. Instead, the legend is regarded as a metaphor for the saint’s Christianizing efforts, perhaps stemming from Judeo-Christian tradition that portrays snakes and serpents as symbols of evil (for example, in the biblical story of Adam and Eve).
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