St. Patrick's Cathedral in Ireland

During the Early Middle Ages, the Roman Catholic Church grew in importance, and became the unifying force in Western Europe. This meant the pope became both a spiritual and political leader. People looked to the clergy, or priests of the Church, for religious and social needs. The Roman Catholic Church was the only institution to survive the fall of the Roman Empire and gain strength during the Middle Ages. In this topic, you will explore the role of the Church and the Church's structure during this time period.

Essential Question

• What role did the Roman Catholic Church play in medieval Europe?

 

Warm-Up

Would you believe it if someone told you that during an attempted murder, the glass with a poisonous drink shattered in the victim's hand before he could take a sip? Would you believe it if that same person was given poisoned bread, but a raven flew by and carried it away before he could take a bite? Would your opinion to these questions change if you knew the victim was a monk who had blessed the drink and the food? How do you think miracles such as the one described helped monks spread Christianity throughout Europe during the Middle Ages? Take note that a monk is a person who isolates himself from ordinary human society to pursue a spiritual life dedicated to God. The practice of living as a monk is called monasticism, and a monastery is where a community of monks live.

Post your responses to these questions in the discussion area. Then, return to the topic discussion several times over the next few days to read your coursemates' posts. Reply to at least two of them, making sure to ask questions and encourage further conversation.