Concetti Chiave
- The withdrawal of Roman legions led to the decline of their influence, making way for the Anglo-Saxon and Viking societal structures focused on family loyalty and oaths.
- The 'Witan', initially a council of advisers to the king, evolved over time into an early form of Parliament with legislative capabilities.
- Christianity was reintroduced to England by the monk Augustine in 597, after nearly disappearing due to the Anglo-Saxon pagan beliefs.
- The spread of Christianity fostered learning through the establishment of monasteries, which became cultural and educational hubs.
- The growth of churches and cathedrals spurred local trade and urban development, leading to the emergence of English towns.
Decline of Roman Influence
The way of life introduced by the Romans gradually fell into decay when they had withdrawn their legions. The Anglo-Saxons and the Vikings had some traits in common: their society was organised in family groups, and the strongest social bonds were loyalty to the family, to the local lord and to the king. Faithfulness and the keeping of oaths had primary importance on their society. An important institution was the 'Witan', a Council formed by respectable men who were the king's advisers. In the course of the time the Witan developed into an official institution which could make laws. Some see the Witan as a primitive, early form of Parliament.
Introduction of Christianity
The majority of the Romans worshipped their own gods, the same as the Greeks. Some Romans, however, were Christians, and it was through their presence that Christianity was first introduced into England. With the invasion of the Anglo-Saxons, who were pagans, Christianity almost disappeared , but it was brought back by the monk Augustine, who was sent by Pope Gregory the Great in 597 to convert the population.
Impact of Christianity
The conversation to Christianity had great relevance. On the one hand it contributed to the development of learning, because many monasteries were founded between the 7th and 8th centuries, and they were traditionally centres study and culture. On the other hand the numerous churches and cathedrals attracted tradesmen and craftsmen, thus helping local trade but most important of all re-awakening urban life and leading to the birth of English towns.
Domande da interrogazione
- How did the withdrawal of Roman legions affect the societal structure in England?
- In what ways did the conversion to Christianity impact English society?
The withdrawal of Roman legions led to the decline of Roman influence, paving the way for the Anglo-Saxons and Vikings, whose societies were organized around family loyalty and oaths. The 'Witan', a council of advisers to the king, emerged as a significant institution, evolving into an early form of Parliament.
The conversion to Christianity significantly impacted English society by fostering learning through the establishment of monasteries, which became centers of study and culture. It also stimulated local trade and urban life, leading to the development of English towns through the construction of churches and cathedrals.
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