The Beginning of the Middle Ages 500 to 1500 AD

Heritage of RomeBeliefs of the Catholic ChurchCustoms of Germanic Tribes

Roots

Germanic Invasions of Rome: 1. Decline of learning and common language.

2. Government Shift: National Local

Local Monasteries became the only centers of learning following Rome’s Fall.

Monks preserved a common language (Latin) and a system of learning.

Monks and Monasteries

Created a Church that was both Spiritual and Secular.

He acted just as a king would, he could do things such as tax and raise an army.

Promoted Canon Law as the Law of the land.

Pope Gregory I: the Church as an Earthly Power

Stopped the spread of Islam into Western Europe and set the stage for future Holy Wars.

Battle of Tours: Christian Resistance

Charlemagne used Christianity as a way of uniting people under his rule.

His tactics were simple, convert or die by his sword.

Charlemagne: Christian Warrior

Charlemagne promoted learning in monasteries and established some of Europe’s first universities.

For the first time, Europe as we know it began to rise in prestige and power.

Charlemagne is best known for his at times hard yet effective rule.

Charlemagne: Revival and Legacy

Medieval life began to revolve around local manors that were controlled by Lords and his knights. The majority of people were common peasants.

The New System Feudalism