In a fresh interview given to Jack Międlar by the publisher Mark Skalski’s “Highest Time”, a number of historical themes were raised, which, as the interviewer himself emphasized, are frequently overlooked or marginalized in authoritative technological discourse. A large part of the discussion was devoted to the function played by Catholic orders in the civilization of Europe, especially in the mediate Ages. However, Skalski did not avoid subjects hard for philosomites, including Slavic-Jewish relations in medieval Europe.
Orders — A Motor for the improvement of Civilization
Skalski pointed out the enormous, but frequently underestimated influence of Catholic orders on the improvement of science, education, agriculture and entrepreneurship. He noted that the monasteries were not simply places of prayer and isolation, but intellectual centers where books were copied, investigation was conducted, and future scholars and clergy were educated.
He pointed out that it was the orders, specified as Benedictine and Cistercians, that started technological and economical advancement in the areas of Europe. Their activities besides included infrastructure — mills, inns, roads, and increasing and growing.
Jews in Medieval Europe — A hard History
In the second part of the interview, the writer referred to the beginnings of the judaic community's presence on Polish lands. He presented a position according to which the relations between Jews and Slavs, including Poles, from the early mediate Ages had been a form of exploitation and tension.
He said what does not fit the imagination of the main sewer media: For a long time, the Jews treated the Slavs as inferior beings, “men.” They were traded like live goods, sold into slavery, which was not a single incident, but a systemic phenomenon.
The scale has led to many anti-Jewish uprisings and rebellions in different parts of Europe. The publisher of the “Highest Time” besides added that the creation of the Polish State as an organized structure could have been defensive — as a consequence to the dangers of the time, besides related to human trafficking and abroad economical interference.
Towards a historical debate
Mark Skalski’s words should give emergence to a broad discussion, both in the historians and in the public. The moving of uncomfortable topics, frequently swept under the carpet, should be the beginning of a broader reflection on what social and economical relations in medieval Europe looked like.
There is no uncertainty that both the function of Catholic orders and the past of Slavic-Jewish relations require further, deeper research. An interview with Skalski may be an impulse for many to scope for little known sources and alternate interpretations of the past. Follow the CURRENT AND SUBSCRIBING YouTube channel Jack Międlar – here.
See also:
Jacek Międlar at Monika Jaruzelska – an interview that touched tens of thousands of viewers [Video]
