Monasticism
A way of life where people called monks or nuns live apart from the world to focus on religion.
What is it?
Monasticism is when people choose to live in a monastery or convent. They spend their time praying, studying, and working. Monks and nuns often take vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience. Saint Benedict started one of the most famous monastic rules. The painting you saw shows a monk (Saint Benedict) in his robe, which is typical of monastic life. Monasticism was very important in the Middle Ages, as monasteries were centers of learning and art.
Why it matters
Monasteries were important centers of learning and art in the Middle Ages. Monks copied books by hand and created beautiful artworks. They also helped the poor and sick.
Where you've seen it
This list grows as you capture more artworks about monastic life.
