The Middle Ages (ENHANCED eBook)

Book excerpt: "The Middle Ages" (A.D. 500—1300) covers one of the darkest periods in European history—from the collapse of the Roman Empire through centuries of chaos, destruction, and barbarian rule. The civilizing power of the church, the rise of feudalism, the growth of monarchical rule, the dramatic rebirth of towns and cities, and the formation of the world's first universities are among the events vividly documented in this richly illustrated text. Challenging map exercises and provocative review questions encourage meaningful reflection and historical analysis. Tests and answer keys are included.