11.2.2 Christianity–the state religion and its spread

In AD 380/381, Emperor Theodosius made Christianity the state religion of the Roman Empire and forbade all pagan religions.

During the great Migration Period, Christianity in Europe grew stronger and spread to many areas of the then known world. Starting in the seventh century, Christians in parts of Asia and Africa had to contend with the new religion of Islam.

Monasticism played a special role in the propagation of Christianity. These religious individuals were often responsible for outstanding scholarly accomplishments and were also involved in agriculture and social issues. Many considered the propagation of the Christian faith to be one of their principal tasks.

Conditioned by historical developments, Christianity became the force which shaped the life and society of the people of Europe.

Medieval Christianity faced crises such as the East-West Schism of 1054, that is the separation of the Western Church (Roman Catholic Church) from the Eastern Church (Orthodox Churches), as well as the crusades (1096 to 1270), the power struggle between the Popes and emperors of Central Europe, and increasing conflict with Islam.