Monastic Life in the Middle Ages

Monastic life in the Middle Ages involved men and women living in monasteries or convents, dedicated to prayer, work, and community living. Monks and nuns followed specific religious rules, such as those established by St. Benedict, focusing on spiritual growth, self-discipline, and service. They engaged in activities like copying manuscripts, farming, and educating the young, becoming centers of learning and culture. Monasteries often provided hospitality and care for the sick, playing vital roles in medieval society. This way of life emphasized simplicity, communal living, and devotion to God, contrasting with the broader, often tumultuous world outside their walls.