As a history fan, I must admit the following video has been my favorite Prager University offering so far.

Were the Middle Ages Dark?

Prof. Anthony Esolen, author of “The Politically Incorrect Guide to Western Civilization,” is teaching the online institute’s newest course. During a 5 minute discussion, the professor dispels myths and fallacies about the era known as the “Dark Ages”.

• Europeans knew the Earth was round.
• The people of the Middle Ages were not grim; this is when “carnival” style events developed.
• Medieval men developed the “university” and created “Masters” and “Doctoral” degree programs.
• Many of the religious leaders of the time were broadly traveled and learned in science.
• Gothic cathedrals and architecture are a testament to high quality of European creativity and construction methods.
• Music and poetry from era are still admired today.

Esolen is a professor of English at Providence College and translator of classic works, as well as writer for magazines including the Claremont Review of Books and Touchstone Magazine, of which he is a senior editor. He has translated Dante‘s Divine Comedy, Lucretius‘ On the Nature of Things, and Torquato Tasso‘s Jerusalem Delivered. He also writes a column for the Inside Catholic website.