Moreover, the way that people work hard to bring forth old information in order to develop a new form of thinking is another reason why recollection is seen to them as an active process rather than a passive one. This is what is called memoria, which Carruthers and Ziolkowski refer to as “an art of composing” (Carruthers and Ziolkowski 2). A modern day definition of active memory is stated as follows: “Active working memory involves the ability to hold things together in your mind while working with them, such as steps in a process or attributes of a concept. It plays a role in helping you produce quality work and communicate ideas effectively. Following instructions, writing, and problem solving are all aided by active working memory. This part of memory also helps you link the information registered in short-term memory to information stored in your long-term memory” ("Active Working Memory") with this definition, it is clear that what Carruthers and Ziolkowski describe as memory in the middle ages is similar to how active memory is defined. Moreover, people worked with multiple works by using the different methods that will be explained further in the following …show more content…
In the medieval context, it was necessary to learn and make use of memory through active processes. Moreover, these actions provide an individual with the knowledge and the ability to distinguish their thoughts. Memorization was important to retain speech and knowledge in one’s mind. Too, Carruthers and Ziolkowski say that recollection is an active process because of all the work that goes into it. Further, it can be said that these extensive processes of memorizing and recollecting information provides one with the ability to reason. Too, Carruthers and Ziolowski mention, “memories themselves are affects of the soul and mind” (Carruthers and Ziolkowski 8). Moreover, they emphasize the effects of emotions and memories and that emotions are linked to the memories that we have. Therefore, if emotions are involved in our memories, then this means that reasoning can be enhanced. Memories play a larger role than just being able to recall information. However, with all of the reasons that Carruthers and Ziowloski listed above, humans are connected intuitively with our thoughts and when emotions are involved, this enhances the ability to think of concepts in logical