(855) 4-ESSAYS

Type a new keyword(s) and press Enter to search

Middle Ages



             Around the year 1050, Viking invasions stopped and Europe had a chance to flourish in the peace. The High Middle Ages brought an agricultural revolution thanks to technological advancements and a "little optimum" which lengthened the growing season by a few weeks. The invention of the heavy plow horseshoes and harnesses for workhorses, and the use of a three-field rotation system all helped make the farmer's job easier and more efficient. In this way, the Middle Ages were more advanced than Rome, because the Romans hadn't had to worry about labor saving since they had so many slaves. Even though some people of the Middle Ages lived in conditions not much better than slaves, such as serfs, they did have some rights and weren't owned by other people. .
             With the increase in agricultural production, there was also an increase in population and wealth. Cities started to emerge again as well as a revival of trade. There was a new class of merchants developing as well, many of which were as wealthy as nobles. .
             The Middle Ages also brought religious reform. The papal monarchy was strengthened and some order was restored within the Church. The system of cardinals electing the pope was developed, which took Church power out of the hands of wealthy secular people. .
             In 1095 Pope Urban II called the first Crusade. The purpose of the Crusade was to take Jerusalem back from the Muslims. The pope had the full support of the people and the Crusade was fully successful. The westerners thought it was their duty to get rid of all non Christians, and took it upon themselves to kill all the Muslims and Jews. Even though the Christians lost the following Crusades, they still gave them a stronger faith and sense of purpose for their lives. .
             With the resurgence of cities, trade, strong governments, and papal strength came artistic and literary achievements. Many new schools were established, at first just to educate the clergy, but later for laymen as well.


Essays Related to Middle Ages


Got a writing question? Ask our professional writer!
Submit My Question