The term "extra vagantes" refers to a group of wandering scholars or students who existed during the medieval period. Derived from Latin, "extra" means "outside" or "beyond" while "vagantes" translates to "wandering" or "roaming."
The "extra vagantes" were typically young men who left their homes and families behind to travel around different cities and regions in search of knowledge and education. They would often undertake this journey due to a lack of educational opportunities available in their hometowns or to escape an unfavorable social or economic situation. They would embark on pilgrimages, attend universities or gatherings of scholars, and engage in intellectual discussions with fellow wanderers.
These nomadic scholars formed an informal network or guild, with some adopting pseudonyms or assuming roles based on classical mythology. As a group, they rebelled against the established educational systems and authority of established institutions. They sought to challenge traditional teachings and explore more daring and unconventional ideas.
The extra vagantes were known for their pursuit of diverse knowledge, engaging in not only religious studies but also secular subjects like poetry, music, astronomy, and philosophy. They were often associated with a sense of romanticism, freedom, and adventure. However, their activities and behavior were sometimes viewed as questionable or even heretical, as some extra vagantes strayed from traditional religious teachings.
In summary, "extra vagantes" refers to a group of wandering scholars during medieval times who sought education outside the confines of established institutions, defied traditional teachings, and explored a wide range of subjects, combining intellectual pursuits with a spirit of adventure and rebellion.
