This article covers the transformation of the ideal of a bishop and the bishop’s role during the Migration Period using the example of Gaul. Following a short description of the methodology, the ideal of the bishop in the period before the migration is discussed. The main aspects of the transformation of this ideal and the role of the bishop are then analysed, followed by any introductory analysis of the source materials where the developments in Gaul are compared with other regions, primarily North Africa. The specific development of the gallic episcopate and gallic society is finally evaluated using the German Bischofsherrschaft medieval studies concept.