Final answer:
Monasteries played a significant role in preserving knowledge and learning. Monks hand-copied books, including religious and classical texts, creating illuminated manuscripts.
Step-by-step explanation:
Monasteries had various roles in ancient and medieval times. One of their important tasks was the preservation of knowledge and learning. Monks in monasteries hand-copied books, including religious texts and classical Greek or Roman writings, which would have otherwise been lost. These books were often beautifully illustrated and became known as illuminated manuscripts, showcasing the artistic skills of the monks.