Which institution served as the primary source of education and writing during the Middle Ages?

The Roman Catholic Church was the primary institution responsible for education and writing during the Middle Ages. During this period, the Church maintained control over much of the intellectual life in Europe. Monasteries and cathedral schools became centers of learning, where monks and clergy copied religious texts, preserved classical knowledge, and educated those who were to serve in religious roles. The Church’s influence extended to literacy, as it was primarily responsible for teaching reading and writing, and many of the few literate individuals during this time were clergy.

In contrast, while monarchies, trade guilds, and feudal lords had roles in society, they did not predominantly focus on education and writing. Monarchies were often more concerned with governance and military matters, and trade guilds focused on economic activities and apprenticeships rather than formal education. Feudal lords had a vested interest in maintaining their power and managing lands but did not establish institutions for widespread education, which was largely under the auspices of the Church.