Chapter 9, Chapter 10, Chapter 11 Summary and Analysis

Chapter 9:

In the thirteenth century, churches were not only places to conduct religious services. They also served secular purposes, such as a marketplace gathering area during the Fairs, or town council meetings.

Physically, the church is a cold place with no place to sit. Some bring stools, or simply kneel on the straw-colored floor. All wear warm clothes, especially for a long service. A church service is started with a bell ring. Gregorian chant is used to sing hymns, perhaps the first example of polyphonic music. This singing may be accompanied by organs, which at this point are cumbersome, loud, and difficult to play.

Sermons are given in the vernacular, since few understand spoken Latin. The priest gives a "thema," or short passage from the Gospels, following it with an explanation or anecdote to relate to the...