Question

In what ways were monasteries very helpful during medieval times

a) Centers of trade and commerce
b) Military training grounds
c) Educational institutions
d) Entertainment hubs

Answer 1

Monasteries were helpful in medieval times as centers of trade and commerce, educational institutions, and refuges and centers of administration.

Step-by-step explanation:

In medieval times, monasteries were very helpful in several ways:

1. Centers of trade and commerce: While not primarily focused on trade, monasteries often owned large tracts of land and engaged in agricultural activities. They produced goods such as crops and livestock that could be sold to generate income.
2. Educational institutions: Monasteries became major centers of learning and played a crucial role in preserving books and knowledge from the ancient world. Monks painstakingly copied books by hand, including religious texts and classical writings, contributing to the preservation of medieval art through illuminated manuscripts.
3. Refuges and centers of administration: Monasteries served as refuges in times of crisis and were valued centers of administration and communication networks. They also provided training for priests to serve newly converted peoples.