The Advancement of Civilisation in the Western World: The Medieval World: 2

The Middle Ages saw the flowering of a Christian civilisation that had its source in the life and teaching of Christ, but took centuries to become established in the form of a new culture. Chief amongst the characteristics of the Middle Ages was the quality of devotion. Inspired by the example of Christ, such men as Benedict, Gregory, Alcuin, Erigena, Anselm and Francis of Assisi offered unique models of Christian virtue that could be emulated by men and women from emperors and kings to monks and peasants. Devotion found expression in many forms: in love for Christ and the Church, in creating astonishingly beautiful art exemplified by the great cathedrals, and in men of action like those who became soldiers of Christ in the crusades. Three times a cultural renaissance of thought, religion and social and economic principles renewed its authority over all levels of society, despite endemic poverty, disease and warfare.Ancient tradition challenges the view that mankind is ever progressing from ape-like origins towards an apotheosis of humanity. The study of history tends to confirm the contrary thesis of a gradual descent from a golden age to an age of iron. Yet throughout history there have arisen societies that rise above decline to exhibit the characteristics of a high civilisation, where knowledge and art flourish and inspire later generations. The Advancement of Civilisation in the Western World seeks to portray these exemplary times of human genius, whilst showing them against the background of oft-recurring times of darkness.