The Importance of Religion

The importance of religion is seen over and over again in the lives of those of the Middle Ages, though sometimes that importance is evidenced by an irreverent attitude. Toward the end of the century some parishioners carry on inside the church while the priests themselves stand by idly or even engage in games of chance with dice. Though the irreverence is unchecked in these cases, it is evidence that people have lived so closely with religion that the familiarity has effectively created a contemptuous attitude.

In most cases, the importance is evidenced by zealously following the dictates of the church. For example, many people on their deathbeds suddenly want to make up for a lifetime of sins. In an effort to gain a foothold in heaven, these people make religious bequests. In some cases, the bequests are exorbitant and may even put families into...