Middle Ages

Definition

The Middle Ages refers to the historical period between the fall of the Western Roman Empire and the beginning of the Renaissance (approximately 500 CE to 1500 CE). It is characterized by feudalism, chivalry, religious influence, and limited social mobility.

Related terms

Feudalism: A medieval social system based on land ownership, loyalty to lords, and labor obligations from peasants.

Crusades: Series of military campaigns initiated by Christian powers to regain control over holy sites in the Eastern Mediterranean from Muslim forces.

Manorialism: An economic system during the Middle Ages where peasants worked on a lord's land in exchange for protection.