During the 'Dark Ages', what aspect of culture was primarily in decline?

The decline of literature and education during the 'Dark Ages' is viewed as a significant cultural setback. This period, roughly spanning from the fall of the Western Roman Empire around the 5th century to the beginning of the Renaissance in the 14th century, is characterized by a notable decline in literacy rates and a reduction in scholarly activity. Many texts from antiquity were lost, and fewer new works were produced. Educational institutions, which had flourished in the Roman era, diminished in number and influence. The focus shifted away from intellectual pursuits in many areas of Europe due to socio-political instability and the fragmentation of societies that came with the decline of centralized Roman authority.

While other aspects of culture experienced challenges during this time—such as trade, which was disrupted due to invasions and a lack of political stability—the decline in literature and education had a profound long-term impact on Europe’s cultural and intellectual development. This decline laid the groundwork for a long period where knowledge preservation and transmission were largely dependent on monastic communities, which worked to safeguard certain texts. The eventual resurgence of interest in classical knowledge during the Renaissance can, therefore, be understood as a reaction against this earlier cultural decline.