Humanities Study Guide

Humanities Study Guide

Chapter 3: Early Middle Ages

Overview In Chapter 3 we will be looking at the architectural changes in the early Middle Ages and exploring the evolution of music and literature. Learning Objectives At the end of this chapter, you should be able to: • Describe the significant difference between the Middle Ages and ancient times. • Understand the Romanesque and Monastic styles in architecture • Describe the evolution of music and philosophy • Explain the purpose of theater and its relations to the average person 3.1 Early Middle Ages Christianity spread quickly throughout Europe during this era, influencing all areas of life. Through the development of feudalism, a hierarchical order influenced by the Christian concepts of Heaven and Hell formed throughout society. Feudalism is a ranking system that categorized people from the lowest peasants to the highest royals. Due to the rise of Christianity, Pagan cultures had no choice but to blend in with Christian societies. This blending became present with the spread of the arts and new education methods. Charlemagne, known as “The Father of Europe” and as “Charles the Great,” played an important role in uniting Western Europe. He was the King of the Franks in 768 AD. Charlemagne had a vivid interest in the arts and supervised reform in both the church and music. His royal court emphasized education, giving more important titles to those who could read. He also ordered monks and clergymen to open a school for boys to teach them how to read. Literature Monasteries became the epicenters for learning and producing books. Books during these times were rare and only for the wealthy. Each book was hand-copied and intricately decorated by a monk. Beowulf , one of the most famous epic tales, is an excellent example of the work created in monasteries. The most famous epic from the time is The Song of Roland . It told the tales of heroic battles. Typically, it was sung in feudal courts for the enjoyment of the noblemen's guests.

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