The Rise of Universities

"The Rise of Universities" by Charles Homer Haskins is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The work explores the origins and evolution of universities, particularly focusing on the mediaeval institutions that laid the groundwork for contemporary higher education. Haskins delves into the significance of these universities in shaping educational structures and traditions that persist today. At the start of this historical examination, Haskins asserts that universities, unlike the learning systems of ancient Greece and Rome, emerged during the Middle Ages as organized institutions for higher education, stemming from a revival of learning between the 12th and 13th centuries. He notes that foundational universities such as Bologna and Paris played pivotal roles in this movement, establishing the norms for academic structure, curriculum, and student life. The opening portion highlights a significant transition from earlier, less formal types of education to the establishment of universities characterized by faculty, degrees, and a curriculum that would influence educational systems for centuries to follow. Haskins prepares the reader to understand the profound impact these institutions had on the intellectual landscape of Europe and beyond through a deep exploration of their historical context.