Inside the Medieval Mind (2008)

*Inside the Medieval Mind is a documentary series that dives into the intellectual landscape of the medieval world.

Guided by Professor Robert Bartlett from St Andrews University—one of the foremost authorities on the Middle Ages, the series reveals surprising discontinuities and similarities between that era and our own.

1. Belief: In the episode titled “Belief,” Professor Bartlett takes us on a tour of medieval England, focusing on religious beliefs.

From the year 600 to 1450, the landscape of faith underwent tumultuous changes. People grappled with questions about the divine, the afterlife, and their place in the cosmos.

The medieval mind sought solace in rituals, saints, and sacred spaces, creating a tapestry of spiritual devotion.

2. Sex: Furthermore, the episode “Sex” explores how medieval society viewed sexuality. Contrary to common misconceptions, the Middle Ages were not prudish. Love, desire, and intimacy were essential to human experience.

We unravel the complexities of courtly love, arranged marriages, and the delicate balance between pleasure and sin. The medieval heart beat with passion, just as ours does today.

3. Power: The episode “Power” takes us into the political intrigues of the time. Kings, queens, and nobles wielded authority, but power was not only a story of conquests and crowns.

It unfolded amidst intricate webs of loyalty, betrayal, and ambition. The medieval realm navigated treacherous waters, seeking more than just dominion—it sought legitimacy and stability.

4. Knowledge: Lastly, “Knowledge” reveals the secrets of medieval learning. Scholars, monks, and scribes meticulously preserved ancient texts.

The purpose of knowledge was not only about solving mysteries. In monastic libraries and bustling universities, the world of ideas underpinned the medieval quest for understanding.

In summary, Inside the Medieval Mind is an eloquent journey through time, an exploration of beliefs, desires, politics, and wisdom that continues to shape our understanding of the past and present.

Remember, the medieval mind, like ours, sought meaning, connection, and a place within the grand tapestry of existence.