On The Christian Monasticism In Western Europe In The Early Middle Ages

Monasticism, which is formed through the developing proce- ss of Christianity, lives by such ways as striving for virtue and living in monastic life in western world for a long time. As a historical phenomenon in the early period of 5th-12th century in the Middle Ages, it has a great influence upon the developme- ment of the western European society in a certain historical condition. The Christian monasticism originated from essence of the asceticism and crisis and degeneration of the Roman world. The existence and development of the monasticism revived the western culture in the early period of the Middle Ages, laying a foundation for school education and accelerating the cultural communication between people in western Europe, it is certain that the monasticism has played a positive role in succession to classical culture, which acts as a link between past and future. As the dawn of civilization rising in the dark ages, monasticism always serves as mend and vindication of civilizat- ion initiation, especially in a world full of savageness, ignorance and chaos.This thesis falls into three parts, including preface, body and conclusion. The preface gives a general description of some concepts and theoretical bases for the thesis. The body con- tains three chapters. Chapter 1 presents the origin of Chris- tian monasticism in the early Middle Ages. Chapter 2 discusses the development of Christian monasticism in western Europe in the early of Middle Ages while chapter 3 deals with the inf- luence of Christian monasticism in the same time. The author maintains that monasticism is the most vigorous and important prevailing custom in the early period of Middle Age. Some monks attempts to free themselves from the secular dissension, the tribulation and fear so as to make spiritual communication with God without disturbance. It is the self-control and devotion of the monks that gives rise to the distinctive charm of the monastic culture in a certain age.