Periodization • Early Middle Ages – 500 – 1000 CE • High Middle Ages – 1000 – 1250 CE • Late Middle Ages – 1250 – 1500 CE
The Role of the Catholic Church • Filled hole left by collapse of classical world • Monasticism • Major influence of church leaders – Bishops, Abbots, etc. • Sponsored Crusades; Inquisition • Controlled a third of all land in Western Europe
A Day in the Life of a Medieval Monk
Charlemagne’s Empire
Feudalism -A political, economic, and social system based on loyalty and military service.
Medieval Castles
Chivalry and Knighthood • Chivalry – A code of Honor and Behavior – Gallantry, courtesy and honor. – The noble qualities a knight was supposed to have, such as courage and a readiness to help the weak. – The demonstration of any of these qualities. • Page Squire Knight – Typically a man who was pledged to serve his liege or king in military service.
Political Evolution in England • The Magna Carta (1215) “The Great Charter” – monarchs were not above the law. – kings had to consult a council of advisors. – kings could not tax arbitrarily • Helped lead to formation of Parliament – House of Lords – Nobility/Church – House of Commons – Knights, Middleclass