Rethinking the Dark Ages and Christianity's Influence

The concept of the 'Dark Ages' is traditionally linked to Christianity ruling the world, leading to persecution, destruction of knowledge, and prioritization of wealth and power. Historically, Christianity has been portrayed as impeding progress in science, health, and ethics, perpetuating a negative legacy. However, this narrative is being challenged by historians, suggesting that Christianity's influence during the Dark Ages may not have been entirely negative. The prevailing anti-Catholic bias in Protestant-dominated societies has shaped misconceptions about the Middle Ages, with 18th-century historian Edward Gibbon playing a significant role in perpetuating this myth. Gibbon's narrative of the decline of the Roman Empire and the transition to the modern world has framed Christianity as a hindrance to progress, reinforcing the Protestant view of history where they are the heroes and the Church is the adversary.