The term “Middle Ages” describes the period after the fall of Rome in 476 CE and the Renaissance era in the 14th century (History.com, 2010). According to Spark Notes (n.d), the “Middle Ages” or the “Medieval period” is mistakenly recognized as insignificant between two epochs. This period is characterized by the power revolution as Catholic Church became extremely significant and authoritative. Moreover, the rise of Islam in the Middle East led to considerable political and economic transformations (History.com, 2010). The Middle Ages commonly known as “dark times” were not so dark and led to important technological and economic advances.
The most powerful figure in medieval Europe was the Pope as direct representative of Catholic Church. Monarchs and leaders could obtain support, power, and protection from the alliance with the Church. The Church was the main economic and social driving force, impacting the politics of different countries (History Learning Site, 2010). For example, it collected “tithe” from the ordinary population and set the rules and laws based on the Bible and their interests. Moreover, the Church obtained the power to assign and reject candidates for kings or queens’ positions. It interrupted inner and outer politics and connections of European countries and had manipulative power over most parts of the ordinary European population such as peasants.
The plague pandemic that happened in 1347-1350 probably was the most destructive event at that time. The bubonic plague, or “Black Death,” killed more than 20 million people in Europe that was 30 percent of all population (History.com, 2020). Increased migration in cities and high density of population widespread this disease extremely fast. According to History.com (2020), the diseases started at the Sicilian port of Messina and covered the whole of Europe. The plague had a destructive effect on the economics and living conditions of European citizens as killed cows, pigs, goats, and sheep. During this time, Europeans also experienced workforce scarcity that led to famine and the spread of other diseases.
Despite the romantic representation of this epoch in movies and other types of media, I wish I never could experience this period in person. This decision is mainly motivated by the fact that as a modern person with access to pure water, electricity, and Internet, I would simply not survive in such harsh conditions. Poor hygiene, constant wars, diseases and the dichotomy of the Church including inquisitions do not add color to this period.
References
History.com. (2010). Middle Ages. Web.
History.com. (2020). Black Death. Web.
Medieval lives – The Medieval Church. History Learning Site. (2015). Web.
SparkNotes. (n.d.). Early Middle Ages (475-1000). SparkNotes. Web.