10 characteristics of the Middle Ages

The Middle Ages is a period that extends from the fall of the Western Roman Empire in the 5th century to the Renaissance in the 15th century. At this time, Europe underwent profound cultural, economic and political changes that took it from the ancient Greco-Roman civilization to Modernity. It is in the Middle Ages where the first cities, feudalism, the Catholic Church, chivalry and the university arose, among other institutions that last to this day.

Medieval thought was based on theocentrism, that is, the idea that God was the center of everything that existed in the world, and that human beings should do everything possible to achieve salvation. That is why the Catholic Church played a leading role in medieval society, coming to have absolute power over the life and death of people. However, philosophical currents that advocated reason as a mechanism to know the truth also arose, such as Thomism and nominalism.

The Middle Ages is a fascinating time to study, as it was a period of transition and change, which laid the foundation for Western culture and civilization. Architecture, literature, music and the arts in general also flourished in this period, leaving an important legacy for humanity. Although sometimes referred to as a dark age, the Middle Ages were crucial to the further development of European culture and civilization.

List of the 10 most important characteristics of the Middle Ages

1. Feudalism: political and economic system in which feudal lords had control over land and the rights of peasants.
2. Crusades: series of military expeditions carried out by European Christians with the aim of recapturing Jerusalem.
3. Romanesque art: architectural style characterized by large arches, thick walls, and sculptural decoration.
4. Gothic cathedrals: large religious buildings, characterized by their high vaults and stained glass windows.
5. Universities: educational institutions that arose in the Middle Ages and focused on the teaching of Theology, Law and Medicine.



6. illuminated books: manuscripts decorated with illustrations in gold, silver and bright colors.
7. Black Death: epidemic that killed millions of people in Europe during the 14th century.
8. Chivalry: code of conduct that knights were required to follow, including courtly love, loyalty, and honor.
9. Inquisition: ecclesiastical court that judged and punished heretics.
10. Spirituality: Religion and the spiritual life were very important in the Middle Ages for most people, who based their lives on the Christian faith.

Final comments about the Middle Ages

In conclusion, the Middle Ages was a period of history that had a great influence on the formation of the modern world. At this time, various significant aspects were observed, such as the consolidation of the feudal system, the growing importance of the Catholic Church, the rise of great empires and the appearance of new technological advances in different fields.

On the other hand, as the Middle Ages progressed, there was also a greater openness and cultural diversity. This allowed for the emergence of new forms of art, literature, and science, which in turn contributed to the development of the Renaissance in subsequent centuries. In short, the Middle Ages was a period of great changes and transformations that marked the history and culture of the Western world.

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