The Early Middle Ages

Historical Background

The progression of intellectuals in the Roman Empire was interesting. The changing and how it affected the literature was something I did not realize. It seems there is a constant friction between pagans and the catholic church. As paganism grew there is a strain on Christianity and so intellectual writings becomes rare. St. Augustine is widely known for his wild past and his reconciliation with his faith. Through his writ tings in Confessions, brings the theory that perhaps he is another reason why a pagan would choose a christian belief rather than their own. "The vehicle for man's redemption from sin is the Incarnation; only through Christ, who is the "mediator between God and men" (pg. 157).

St. Augustine

St. Augustine made Christianity as an attainable goal rather than something supreme like many of the religious extremists would make it sound. St. Augustine was contradictory in many of this beliefs. He stated that paintings, sculptures, and plays were necessarily false, not from any intention to be such but merely from an inability to that which they represent (157). St. Augustine's biggest point is how one should endure signs. He emphasizes you must understand a sign completely before you can assume what it must mean.