Revision Topic Sheet 11: Twelfth Century Monasticism Flashcards
My grandad is a Templar
How were candidates who were seen as unworthy prevented from joining monasteries?
Christian communities began to adopt lifestyles based on a tradition known as eremitical ascetism. This refers to a hermit lifestyle based on rejecting indulgences for religious reasons in order to become closer to God. Those who failed to adopt this lifestyle were seen as unworthy to join monasteries.
How did the style of monasticism change in the 12th century?
Religion focused more on a purer, simpler Christian life.
Who were the Cistercians?
The Cistercians, or White Monks, were an order of Christianity developed by St Bernard of Clairvaux at Citeaux in 1098, which returned to the strict adherance to the ascetic lifestyle of earlier Christianity.
Why was this order significant?
They received enthusiasm that resulted in the growth of monasteries with the same idea of Christianity, rejecting wealth and observing strict manual labour and prayer to become closer to God.
Why was Bernard of Clairvaux significant?
He was a smart theologian who had a strong impact on kings and nobility through his sermons. This inspired them to support him, which gave the Knights Templar an increased status as a result of Bernard showing support towards them.
