Revolt of the medievalists

Definition

The revolt of the medievalists refers to a scholarly movement during the late 19th and early 20th centuries where historians and intellectuals began to challenge the prevailing views of the Middle Ages as a period of ignorance and decline. This movement sought to reassess and appreciate medieval society's complexities, cultural achievements, and contributions to modern civilization, arguing for a more nuanced understanding of this era.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The revolt of the medievalists emerged as a response to the negative stereotypes that characterized the Middle Ages as a 'dark' period lacking in culture and progress.
2. Medievalists emphasized the importance of feudalism, chivalry, and the role of the Church in shaping European society and governance.
3. This movement encouraged a revival of interest in medieval literature, art, and philosophy, fostering greater appreciation for the era's achievements.
4. Key figures in this movement included scholars such as Johan Huizinga and Charles Oman, who contributed significantly to reevaluating medieval history.
5. The revolt of the medievalists ultimately laid the groundwork for more contemporary historical approaches that recognize the significance of the Middle Ages in shaping modern Europe.

Review Questions

• How did the revolt of the medievalists change perceptions about the Middle Ages among historians?
  • The revolt of the medievalists significantly shifted perceptions by challenging the notion that the Middle Ages were solely a time of darkness and regression. Historians began to highlight the era's cultural achievements, such as advancements in art, architecture, and philosophy. This reevaluation encouraged a more balanced understanding of medieval society's complexities, moving away from oversimplified narratives that painted it in a wholly negative light.
• What were some key arguments presented by scholars during the revolt of the medievalists regarding medieval society?
  • Scholars during the revolt argued that medieval society was not monolithic but rather rich and diverse. They emphasized the importance of feudal relationships, economic systems, and the influence of religion on daily life. Additionally, they pointed out significant cultural contributions, including literature like Dante's 'Divine Comedy' and advancements in Gothic architecture. These arguments helped reshape how historians viewed social structures and cultural life during this time.
• Evaluate the impact of the revolt of the medievalists on modern historical scholarship related to the Middle Ages.
  • The revolt of the medievalists had a profound impact on modern historical scholarship by opening up new avenues for research and interpretation. It prompted historians to reassess primary sources from the Middle Ages with fresh perspectives and methodologies, leading to a more nuanced understanding of this period's significance. This movement also fostered interdisciplinary approaches that integrated insights from art history, literature, and sociology, ultimately enriching our comprehension of how the Middle Ages shaped contemporary European identity.

Related terms

Medievalism: The study or interpretation of the Middle Ages, often characterized by a romanticized view that emphasizes the era's art, literature, and culture.

Renaissance Humanism: An intellectual movement in the Renaissance that emphasized the value of human beings, individualism, and classical learning, often seen as a reaction against medieval scholasticism.

Historiography: The study of how history is written and interpreted, encompassing various methodologies and perspectives used by historians over time.