ABSTRACT
Alongside the monasteries, 'vardapetarans' or religious schools were set up, in which, alongside other subjects, Armenian religious
In this period particular importance was attached to folklore, particularly the popular professional art of the gousans (bards). The art of the gousan is firmly rooted in Armenian folk traditions and played a important role in the social life of the various classes of society, preserving still some of the traditions of pagan times. According to the available literary evidence, the gousan art of the period is characterised by its rich content and music techniques, using a variety of instruments and ensembles. The musicalperforming activity of the gousans and their participation in theatrical performances was constantly criticised by the church. Several church councils (e.g. the Council of Dvin of 649) passed specific canons curtailing the activities of the gousans while the clergy in their sermons and writings constantly discriminated against their profession. All these are indications as to how active the gousans were and, for that matter, folk culture in general and the strength and weight it carried in society.
