This quote from Stephen Greenblatt's The Swerve: How the World Became Modern draws attention to the pivotal role monasteries played in preserving knowledge during the centuries when literacy was a rare skill. It reflects on a historical reality that despite the Roman Empire being stable and prosperous, widespread literacy was not common, especially when contrasted with modern times. Monasteries, often seen narrowly as religious institutions, emerge here as crucial cultural custodians. They were among the few places where books were copied, preserved, and studied, acting as bridges that transmitted classical knowledge to later generations. This statement prompts reflection on how much modern educational infrastructure and accessibility to reading materials have shaped our current world. It also emphasizes that the transmission of knowledge can depend heavily on particular social or institutional structures, highlighting the fragility and preciousness of cultural heritage. Understanding this puts into perspective how easily knowledge might have been lost without the dedication of these monastic scribes. It also challenges the assumption that civilization's progress is always linear—showing that even in prosperous civilizations, literacy and intellectual engagement can be limited. In summary, this quote prompts us to value both the preservation endeavors of the past and the broad educational access we have today, reminding us how the stewardship of knowledge is essential to the advancement of societies.