Medieval scholars were individuals who studied and preserved knowledge during the Middle Ages, roughly from the 5th to the late 15th century. They often worked in monasteries and universities, focusing on subjects like theology, philosophy, and the classics. Notable figures included Thomas Aquinas and Peter Abelard, who contributed significantly to the intellectual landscape of the time. These scholars played a crucial role in the transmission of ancient texts, particularly those from Greece and Rome. They translated and commented on works by authors such as Aristotle and Plato, helping to lay the groundwork for the Renaissance and the modern educational system.