Europe in the Middle Ages

1. Europe in the Middle Ages Early Middle Ages ~ A.D. 450-850 Medieval Conflicts ~ A.D. 900-1500 The High and Late Middle Ages ~ A.D. 1000-1500

2. A New Civilization in Europe • Middle Ages—A.D. 500-1500 • Culture of Middle Ages—Medieval civilization, coming from Latin term “middle age” • Topography of Europe was varied—mountains, flat lads, valleys, etc. • Most of Europe’s early cities were built near major rivers.

3. A New Civilization in Europe • Charlemange built an empire that stretched across what is now France, Germany, and Italy by A.D. 800. • Charlemangeworked with the Catholic Church to spread Christianity. • Many of his advisors were members of the clergy—the group of people who are trained and ordained for religious services. • Charlemagne left a lasting legacy in Europe—he extended Christianity into northern Europe. • After Charlemange’s death, much of Europe split apart.

4. A New Civilization in Europe • Monastery—a secluded community where men called monks focus on prayer • Convent—religious community for women known as nuns • Pagan—follower of polytheism • Missionary—a person who tries to convert others to a particular religion • Saint—an especially holy person

5. A New Civilization in Europe • Invaders—Viking Invasions • Vikings—best described solely as destructive raiders. • Monasteries were ideal targets for Viking attacks because they were close to the Vikings’ homeland.

6. A New Civilization in Europe • Feudalism—type of government in which lords and vassals run manors under loyalty to their king • King • Lords and Vassals • Knights • Peasants and Serfs

7. A New Civilization in Europe • Knights—warriors mounted on horseback in Medieval Europe • Chivalry—code by which knights were expected to be brave, loyal, an generous • Serfs—peasants who were legally bound to the lord’s land