Western Europe in the Middle Ages

The Middle Ages for Western Europe lasted from the 5th to the 16th century. This period includes the early, mature, later Middle Ages. In addition, this period refers to feudalism.

Western Europe characteristic

On the European continent, during this period, complicated processes took place, as a result of which many states have emerged in the form in which we can see them today. The culture of this time was much inferior to the antique. Despite this, there was some progress in everything.

The most difficult period was the early Middle Ages. Western Europe was just beginning to emerge. This was due to the collapse of the Roman Empire, which experienced a severe crisis. In addition, there was a great migration of peoples and there were constant invasions of barbarian tribes. Against the background of endless wars, destruction, cruelty, a transition to the Christian world from the Roman took place. The previously established Ostrogoths, Visigoths, Franks were short-lived. Western Europe in the Middle Ages began to resemble a modern political map only in the period of maturity in the X-XI centuries. At this time, Germany, England, France, Italy, Spain were formed.

Science and Culture

As a result of numerous wars and civil strifes, Western Europe was seriously damaged. Some of the unique ancient cities were completely destroyed. Practically the crafts ceased to develop. There was a stagnation in the development of philosophy and science. As far as social development is concerned, we can talk about notable progress. Slavery was abolished once and for all, the situation was eliminated, in which most of the common people were not actually and legally recognized as people.

Thanks to the active introduction of Christianity, the formation of clear moral and spiritual principles was observed among the population. The main values were hope, faith and love. Propaganda of love for God and others, which seriously affected the minds of people of that time.

At that time the society was divided into three classes: the feudal aristocracy, the clergy and all the rest. The higher clergy was considered, which, in turn, was also divided into groups that differed in their views and attitudes toward religion.

Art

Western Europe in the Middle Ages was distinguished by the high development of art, namely architecture. In the early stages it can be called barbarous, pagan, because the influence of the previous eras was still strong enough. Production is actively developing: the production of weapons, clothing and other products. The miniature has been developed; Book illustrations, which were carried out mainly in monasteries.

The highest flowering in the field of art Western Europe reached under the Carolingians. Overcome the barbarous character. This was promoted by Charlemagne, who created the Academy of Arts and surrounded himself with poets, philosophers, artists, scientists. Most of the monuments in Western Europe belong to this era.

With the onset of the mature Middle Ages and the formation of new states for art, a crisis sets in. Only towards the end of the tenth century the situation is stabilizing and monasteries become centers of art and science .