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Unraveling Adulthood: The Middle Ages

Welcome to the second installment of our blog series, Unraveling Adulthood: A Historical Journey from 1350 to Generation Z. In this post, we will delve into the concept of adulthood during the Middle Ages in Britain. This period offers a fascinating glimpse into how society viewed and defined adulthood, often in ways that differ significantly from our modern understanding.


The Concept of Adulthood in the Middle Ages

The Concept of Adulthood in the Middle Ages

During the Middle Ages, the term "adult" was not as clearly defined as it is today. Writers and scholars of the time often described human development in stages, but "adulthood" did not appear as a fixed or consistent stage. Instead, it was a transition period between youth and old age.


One of the most well-known schemas from this era was the "ages of man," which characterized life as a series of sequential stages. These stages could number anywhere between two and twelve and were often depicted in various media. Each stage was associated with different qualities and responsibilities, reflecting a gradual process of aging.


Despite the low life expectancies of the time, medieval commentators wrote about the full life span, often referencing the biblical "threescore years and ten." Terms like "infant," "child," "adolescent," and "old age" were commonly used, but "adult" was not a fixed stage with consistent terminology or appearance.


The Four-Stage Schema

In the four-stage schema, "adulthood" could be located as either the second or third stage of life. This schema highlights the transitional nature of adulthood during the Middle Ages. It was a period marked by the accumulation or reduction of responsibilities over time, with different qualities and expectations associated with each stage.


The Role of Gender

It is important to note that the "ages of man" schema was almost exclusively male-focused. Women's experiences of adulthood were often overlooked or not as well-documented. However, there were notable exceptions, such as the lives of medieval visionaries, which offer insights into the childhood and adulthood experiences of women during this period.


Conclusion

The Middle Ages provide a rich tapestry of how adulthood was understood and experienced. The lack of a fixed definition of "adult" and the varied schemas used to describe human development highlight the complexity and fluidity of the concept. As we continue our journey through history, we will see how these ideas evolved and changed, shaping our modern understanding of adulthood.

Join us in the next installment as we explore the Renaissance and its impact on the concept of adulthood. Stay tuned for more insights and discussions!

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