How monasteries powered medieval Europe

Andrew Jotischky traces the story of monastic life over more than a thousand years – and considers why these influential institutions were the powerhouses of medieval society

Published: February 5, 2025 at 9:00 AM

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Monasteries and convents were a common sight throughout medieval Europe and beyond. But who were they for? What did they do? And how did religious life there change over the centuries? Speaking to Emily Briffett, Professor Andrew Jotischky traces the history of monastic life from its early origins in the fourth century right up to the 16th century. He explores the pivotal role these religious houses played as society's 'prayer factories', and examines the experiences of the monks and nuns who lived in them.

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Andrew Jotischky is the author of The Monastic World: A 1,200-Year History (Yale University Press, 2024).

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Authors

Emily BriffettSenior content producer (podcasts)

Emily Briffett is senior content producer (podcasts) at HistoryExtra

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