Horizontal Learning in the High Middle Ages: Peer-to-Peer Knowledge Transfer in Religious Communities

In a refreshing exploration of medieval education, this book delves into the often-overlooked dynamic of peer-to-peer knowledge transfer within religious communities during the High Middle Ages. Emphasizing horizontal learning, the authors unveil how monks, nuns, and clerics shared insights and fostered collective intellectual growth, challenging the conventional narrative that positions knowledge as a linear inheritance from teacher to student.

Through a series of essays, the contributors draw on a wealth of historical examples and contemporary scholarship, illustrating the vibrant networks of collaboration and mentorship that flourished among these religious groups. By shedding light on this communal approach to learning, the authors reveal the significance of relationships and dialogue in shaping the intellectual landscape of the time.