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Middle Ages

Definition

The Middle Ages, also known as medieval times or medieval period, is an era spanning roughly from 476 AD (fall of Western Roman Empire) to 1453 AD (Fall of Eastern Roman Empire). It is characterized by feudalism, the influence of the Catholic Church, and limited technological advancements.

Analogy

Picture yourself attending a themed Renaissance fair with knights, castles, and jesters. The Middle Ages were like that fair but on a much larger scale. People lived in a time when kings ruled over vast kingdoms, knights jousted for honor, and lords held court in grand castles.

Related terms

Feudalism: A social system prevalent during the Middle Ages where land was owned by nobles who granted portions to vassals in exchange for loyalty and military service.

Crusades: Military campaigns sanctioned by the Catholic Church during the Middle Ages with the aim of recapturing Christian holy sites from Muslim control.

Manor System: An economic arrangement during feudal times where peasants worked on a lord's estate (manor) in exchange for protection and use of land.