Gone Medieval Why the Early Middle Ages Matter
Feb 4, 2025
Discover the true meanings behind 'medieval' and 'early medieval,' and why labeling these periods as the 'Dark Ages' is misleading—and even offensive. The conversation dives into the rich cultural and intellectual life after the Roman Empire's fall, exploring the vibrant legacy of the Byzantine Empire and the Carolingian Renaissance. Uncover the complexities of historical narratives, the gradual Christianization of Europe, and the emergence of new political structures. It's a fascinating look at a time often misunderstood and deserves to be celebrated.
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Medieval Periodization
- "Medieval" and "early medieval" are terms historians use for periodization.
- They help categorize and discuss different historical periods, like chapters in a story.
Periodization's Imperfections
- Periodization is inherently imperfect and Eurocentric, excluding other cultures.
- It's necessary to organize history, but it creates an artificial structure.
Foxe's Middle Ages
- Protestant reformer John Foxe used "Middle Ages" pejoratively.
- He viewed it as a time between the "good" early church and the "good" Protestant Reformation.