Teacher’s Summary

Jennifer, your essay on medieval morality literature demonstrates a strong engagement with the subject and impressive analytical skills. Your personal connection to the material sets a compelling tone, and the well-structured arguments flow logically. The addition of headings has greatly improved organization. Your insights on the relevance of these texts to contemporary issues are astute, and I appreciate your willingness to address problematic aspects, showing maturity in your approach. Areas for improvement include deeper historical context, more direct textual analysis, and incorporation of literary theory. Your writing style is eloquent and befitting an Exeter senior. The reference list is comprehensive, though future essays could benefit from more recent journal articles. Overall, this is an excellent piece of work that successfully connects historical literature to modern themes.

Grade: A- (93%). Keep up the great work!

Medieval Morality Literature: Illuminating the Path to Virtue

Jennifer Wesley
Phillips Exeter Academy
Advanced Literature Studies
Ms. Eleanor Fairfax
September 17, 2023

Introduction

As I sit in the hushed atmosphere of Phillips Exeter Academy’s library, surrounded by centuries of literary wisdom, I find myself drawn to the world of medieval morality literature. The leather-bound tomes before me, with their gilded edges and intricate illuminations, offer a window into a time when literature served not only to entertain but to instruct and elevate the human spirit. In this essay, I will explore the significance of medieval morality literature, its impact on society, and its enduring relevance in our modern world.

The Essence of Medieval Morality Literature

Medieval morality literature emerged during the Middle Ages as a powerful tool for religious and ethical instruction. These works, often allegorical in nature, sought to guide readers along the path of righteousness and warn against the perils of sin. As I delve into texts like “Everyman” and “The Castle of Perseverance,” I am struck by their raw emotional power and the universal truths they convey.

The essence of medieval morality literature lies in its ability to personify abstract concepts. Virtues and vices take on human form, engaging in dramatic conflicts that mirror the internal struggles we all face. In “Everyman,” for instance, the protagonist’s journey becomes a poignant reflection of our own mortality and the ultimate judgment we must all confront. This personification makes complex moral teachings accessible to a wide audience, transcending barriers of literacy and social class.

Religious Influence and Philosophical Depth

One cannot discuss medieval morality literature without acknowledging its deep roots in Christian theology. The Church, as the dominant institution of the time, wielded considerable influence over literary production. However, it would be a mistake to view these works as mere religious propaganda. They often grappled with profound philosophical questions about the nature of good and evil, free will, and the human condition.

Contemporary Relevance

As I pore over these texts, I am repeatedly struck by their relevance to contemporary issues. The struggle between virtue and vice depicted in medieval morality literature resonates with our modern ethical dilemmas. In an age of social media and instant gratification, the temptations faced by characters like Mankind in “The Castle of Perseverance” seem startlingly familiar. These works remind us that the core of human nature remains unchanged, despite the passage of centuries.

Directness and Didacticism

The didactic nature of medieval morality literature might seem heavy-handed to modern readers accustomed to more subtle forms of storytelling. Yet, there is a certain beauty in its directness. These works do not shy away from their purpose; they aim to teach, to transform, and to save souls. In our era of moral relativism, there is something refreshing about literature that dares to assert clear ethical standards.

Problematic Aspects and Historical Context

However, it would be remiss to ignore the problematic aspects of medieval morality literature. Its portrayal of women, for instance, often reflects the patriarchal values of the time. As a young woman in the 21st century, I find myself both fascinated and frustrated by these depictions. They serve as a stark reminder of how far we’ve come in our journey towards equality, while also highlighting the work that remains to be done.

Legacy and Influence

The legacy of medieval morality literature extends far beyond its historical context. Its influence can be traced through the works of Shakespeare, Milton, and even modern fantasy literature. The archetypal characters and moral dilemmas first explored in these medieval texts continue to resonate with audiences today, albeit in more nuanced and complex forms.

Conclusion

As I conclude my exploration of medieval morality literature, I am left with a profound appreciation for its enduring power. These works, born in a world so different from our own, still have the capacity to move, to teach, and to transform. They remind us of our shared humanity and the timeless struggle to lead lives of meaning and virtue.

In our fast-paced, technology-driven world, perhaps we need the lessons of medieval morality literature more than ever. They call us to pause, to reflect, and to consider the consequences of our actions. As I close the ancient volume before me and step out of the library into the bustling world of Exeter, I carry with me the echoes of these moral tales, a quiet reminder of the eternal quest for goodness that unites us across the centuries.

References

Bevington, D. (Ed.). (2012). Medieval drama. Hackett Publishing.

Cawley, A. C. (Ed.). (1993). Everyman and medieval miracle plays. Everyman’s Library.

Davidson, C., Walsh, M., & Broos, T. J. (Eds.). (2007). Everyman and its Dutch original, Elckerlijc. Medieval Institute Publications.

Fitzgerald, C. M., & Sebastian, J. T. (Eds.). (2019). The broadview anthology of medieval drama. Broadview Press.