Key Figures & Events
History: KS3, topic 1.5.5
Key Figures and Events
Pope Sylvester II, St Benedict of Nursia and Brother Eilmer were important figures of the medieval Church.
Pope Sylvester II (946-993 AD)
- Pope Sylvester II (c. 946-993 AD) was known for his scholarly achievements and reforms in the Church.
- Pope Sylvester II was one of the most influential Popes of the time.
St Benedict of Nursia (480-547 AD)
- St Benedict of Nursia (c. 480-547 AD).
- St Benedict of Nursia established the Rule of St. Benedict.
- The Rule of St. Benedict became the basis for monastic life in Europe.
- The Rule of St. Benedict guidelines helped shape the structure and discipline of monastic communities.
The story of Brother Eilmer
- One of the most mysterious stories of this time involves Brother Eilmer.
- Brother Eilmer was a monk from the abbey of Malmesbury in England.
- Brother Eilmer lived in the early 11th century and was known for his fascination with the idea of human flight.
Brother Eilmer's flying machine
- Brother Eilmer was inspired by the story of Icarus, who flew too close to the sun.
- Brother Eilmer decided to test his own flying machine.
- In 1010 CE, Brother Eilmer crafted a set of wings and climbed to the top of the abbey’s tower.
- Brother Eilmer believed that if he jumped from a great height, his wings would allow him to fly.
The flight of Brother Eilmer
- With much excitement and some trepidation, Brother Eilmer jumped off the tower.
- Miraculously, he did manage to glide through the air for about 200 yards before crashing to the ground.
- Although he suffered some injuries, Brother Eilmer survived.
- He famously claimed that he would have flown even farther if only he had better wings.
Test yourself on Key Figures & Events
When did St Benedict of Nursia live?