This quote highlights a significant contrast between ancient Roman society and medieval times regarding literacy rates and their implications for governance and law. In ancient Rome, there was sufficient literacy among citizens to ensure that laws posted publicly on boards would be widely understood by people who could read them. This suggests an advanced level of civic engagement and education within Roman society. However, the statement also notes that even in later medieval times, many kings themselves remained illiterate, implying a stark decrease in overall educational attainment and public access to written information.
The deeper meaning of this quote reveals how societal literacy levels can profoundly impact governance structures and legal practices. In Rome, the widespread ability to read and comprehend laws fostered a more informed citizenry and likely contributed to a stronger sense of civic duty and community involvement. Conversely, in medieval times, the fact that kings could remain illiterate suggests a significant power imbalance where rulers did not need to rely on written communication or public dissemination of laws to govern effectively. This disparity underscores the role of literacy as a crucial tool for democratic engagement and accountability in governance.
The quote is from J. M. Roberts, an esteemed British historian known for his extensive work on world history. His contributions span various aspects of historical study, but he is particularly recognized for his comprehensive understanding of European and global historical contexts, often highlighting the profound societal shifts over centuries.
