Medieval and Modern European History: Literary Events, Universities, and Urban Life

Literary Events in the Middle Ages

The main themes in literature were life, religious belief, criticism of customs, and love. Key developments include:

• The Epic: Four works represented medieval epic poetry.
• Mystical Literature: The mystical movement was a reaction against feudalisation and corruption among the clergy.
• Rose Satire: In the late Middle Ages, customs were criticized, marking crisis and threats to the established order.
• Lyric Poetry: Represented by Petrarch, a fine Italian writer along with Dante and Boccaccio, as literary precursors of the Renaissance.

Emergence of the First Universities

Originating in the palace school of Charlemagne and the Pontifical schools, students had to obtain the seven liberal arts skills to enter a university. This began in the High Middle Ages, initially as corporations of teachers and students prepared for specialization, then transforming into formal structures with deans, rectors, professors, and students. The first universities were those of Bologna and Paris.

Renewal of City Life and the Rise of the Bourgeoisie

Urban life was reborn in Europe following the Crusades. Old cities of the empire were reoccupied, and new cities (towns) emerged. The locals were grouped into corporations or guilds.

The bourgeoisie emerged as a result of rewards from kings for the help given by neighbors in the defense of the manor, or after conflicts between residents of the city and the sovereign.

The Modern Age

Located between the Middle Ages and modern times, spanning the 15th to 17th centuries.

Key Features:

• Renaissance: A period of transition that started in the late Middle Ages, introducing a new outlook on life and culture.
• Geographical Discoveries: Exploration and expansion across the globe.
• The Reformation: A religious revolution rooted in the final years of the Middle Ages.
• The Counter-Reformation: The Catholic Church's reaction to the Reformation.
• Capitalism: Born from Europe's relations with the East after the Crusades.
• The Bourgeoisie: Emergence of a new social class.