ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on the opinions of some of the few leading intellectuals from the high to late Middle Ages whom one can identify as some of the first to incorporate representatives of other religions in their own theological discourses. It examines the philosophical reflections in the aspect of the conversion of Iceland to Christianity. The chapter explores the issue of bridge building further in a separate chapter on the 'good Saracen' in medieval literature, but suffices it here to reflect on the basic effort displayed by the Norwegian king. He wanted Kjartan to convert to Christianity, but all his efforts are predicated on respect and honor, friendship and rationality, and this very similar to Giovanni Boccaccio's Paris merchant in his Decameron who can convince his Jewish friend, after much trepidation, to accept the Christian faith. The philosopher refers to natural law as foundation of all religion, and indicates how essential aspects be shared by the representatives of various faiths.
