Final answer:
King Edwin's reaction to Paulinus's attempts to convert him to Christianity was to engage in thorough, strategic consideration, indicative of his careful decision-making as a ruler. He ultimately converted, demonstrating the growing influence of Christianity and its importance in royal politics of that era.
Step-by-step explanation:
In The Ecclesiastical History of the English People, King Edwin of Northumbria reacts to the efforts of Paulinus, a Christian missionary, by engaging in thoughtful dialogues and considering conversion to Christianity. This reaction is not an immediate acceptance but rather indicates strategic decision-making and a thoughtful consideration of the implications for his rule and his people. Bede, the author of the text, highlights Edwin as a ruler who takes counsel with his advisors and considers all aspects of a situation before making a decision. This approach ultimately highlights the importance of Edwin's role as a ruler who is careful and consultative, traits befitting a king managing a polytheistic society transitioning towards Christianity.
Edwin's reaction showcases both the significance of religion in political decisions of the time and the nature of early Christianity spreading throughout Europe. His ultimate conversion after much deliberation also reflects on the changing tides, as Christianity was becoming more influential, and having a Christian king would have both spiritual and political advantages, as suggested by the example of Emperor Constantine's legalization of Christianity through the Edict of Milan.