The Rise of Cambridge University in the Middle Ages

Abstract

This study traces the rise of Cambridge University in the Middle Ages. The study tackles the founding of the university, which was founded in the early thirteenth century AD, specifically in 1209, after the riots, which have occurred in the same year at the University of Oxford – an event that has forced the students to move on to the new university. Cambridge University has undergone three main stages until it has taken its proper place among the universities of the Middle Ages. Occurring in the thirteenth century, the first stage of foundation and establishment has witnessed the placement of the first building blocks regarding the material construction of the university and the staffing, i.e. the construction of the university’s educational facilities and its educational and administrative structures. Taking place in the fourteenth century, the second stage of evolution has witnessed the establishment of the twelve faculties of the university and a hall at the end of the fifteenth century, as well as the establishment of a firm administrative and organizational structure supported by regulations and laws that serve as a governing framework for this institution. The third and last stage focuses on the status of accomplishment attained by the university in the fifteenth century. At that time, the university has obtained its independence from the Church and has actively participated in various social events.