MEDIEVAL LIFE AND TIMES

The term Medieval derives from the Latin words 'medium aevum' meaning the Middle Ages. The Middle Ages are so called as the middle period between the decline of the Roman Empire and prior to the period called the Renaissance. The early Middle Ages are often referred to as the Dark Ages. The period and era of the Medieval times span 1066 - 1485.

History and Famous Events during Medieval Times (1066 -1485)

The Medieval Times encompass one of the most turbulent periods in the History of England and scatter the Medieval History books and other historical documents. Starting with the Battle of Hastings and the Norman Conquest - when William the Conqueror effectively took all of the lands and property from the Saxon English and gave them to his French nobles and knights. The Medieval Times saw the building of the great English castles, including the Tower of London and Dover Castle which helped the Normans to retain their hold on England during the these turbulent times. The Medieval times also saw the start of the Crusades, the knights of the Middle Ages, the religious knights and the the founding of the Knights Templar. The Domesday Book and the Magna Carta were also important events during Medieval times. The Medieval Feudal System were also introduced during the times and the terrible Black Death really did plague the times and period of the Middle Ages.

Medieval Art

Early Medieval Art was initially restricted to the production of Pietistic painting (religious Christian art) in the form of illuminated manuscripts, mosaics and fresco paintings in churches. There were no portrait paintings. The colors were generally muted. Learn about other aspects of Medieval art and the famous artists of the times including Donatello, Giotto, Leon Battista Alberti, Cimabue, Filippo Brunelleschi, Fra Angelico and Lorenzo Ghiberti. There were also women artists during these times including Claricia - German female artist and nun who illuminated manuscripts in the 12th century, Herrad of Landsberg the Abbess of Hohenburg, Ende - 11th century nun and manuscript illuminator, Guda the German 12th century nun and manuscript illuminator, Diemudis the 12th century Bavarian nun and manuscript illuminator and the most famous of the women artists during the times - Hildegard of Bingen.

Medieval Castles

This section detailing information about Medieval castles illustrate the strength, magnificence and power of the Medieval warlords and their massive stone fortresses. These articles on Medival castles detail the History, Development and Architecture of Medieval Castles, Famous Medieval Castles, Motte and Bailey castles, Concentric Castles and Defending, Destroying and Attacking Medieval Castles.

Life in Medieval Times

What was life really like in Medieval Times in England? The life of all the classes was dominated by the feudal system. What was Village life and general Daily Life like in England during the times of the middle ages? The daily life and times of a lord, a knight, a noblewoman, a peasant, a peasant woman, a monk and a nun. The jobs and occupations dictated the quality of life during the Medieval times of the Middle Ages in England.

Medieval England

Life in Medieval Englandwas dominated by the feudal system. Learn about feudalism in Medieval Times in sections on the Feudalism Pyramid, Feudal Justice and the eventual Decline of Feudalism. The emergence of Manorialism in England is described including sections on Manorialism, Medieval Manors, the Lord of the Manor, the Lady of the Manor and a full description of a Medieval Manor House of Medieval times. Facts and interesting information about the people who lived under the system of feudalism and manorialism. The lives and times of the following Medieval people - the Vassals and the Oath of Fealty, the Fief, Serfs, Peasants and the Villein. Farming in Medieval England. Life in Medieval Englandalso includes an entertainment section and Medival sports providing the History, Facts and Information about the sports and games played during the time of Middle Ages in England.

Medieval Weapons and Armor including Medieval Swords

These articles provide an insight into the violent Medieval Times and era. Every man was expected to be able to use weapons during the changing times of the Dark and Middle Ages. There were two types of armed men during the era - The Knights and the Foot soldiers, who included the Archers. Weapons and the training of soldiers during the times of the Middle Ages including a Knights Weapons, the Quintain, Pell Training, Pell Mell and the Butts. The Medival Swords including the Broadsword, the Falchion sword, the Great sword, the Long sword and the Scimitar. The different types of Pole arms that were used as weapons by the peasants during the Medieval times included the Lance, the Halberd, the Pike, the Poleaxe and Spears. This section on Medieval weapons and armor provides interesting facts and information about Battle Axes, Batons, Maces, the Billhook, Caltrops, the Flail, the Quarterstaff, the War hammer, the Longbow and the Crossbow. Medieval Siege Weapons used during the Medieval times of the Middle Ages were the Ballista, Catapult, Mangonel, Battering Ram, Siege Tower and the massive Trebuchet. Gain an understanding of Siege Warfare during the Medieval times of the Middle Ages and Siege Weapon Design. What happened when a castle or town came under siege. The use of the Siege Tower, Catapults and how people in Medieval times used the mysterious Greek Fire.Finally facts and information about a Knights Armor, Chainmail and his war horse called a Destrier. In fact everything you need to now about Medival Knights in these turbulent times.

Medieval Life and Times History with Timelines, Key dates and Events

The history, facts and information provided via the Medieval Life and Times website provide access to the most important historical events of the era which are detailed in the pages about the Domesday Book, Black Death, Magna Carta, Battle of Hastings, Wars of the Roses, the One Hundred Years War and the Bayeux Tapestry which illustrated the view of the Normans on the Norman conquest and the Battle of Hastings. The History and Key Events of the Middle Ages times include:

The Hundred Years War between England and France

The Black Death or Bubonic Plague in England and Europe

The Wars of the Roses and the Battle of Bosworth in England

The Great Schism of 1054 and the Great Western Schism

The Battle of Hastings and the Norman Conquest

The Bayeux Tapestry

The Doomsday Book ( aka Domesday Book )

The signing of the Magna Carta in England

Medieval times history also includes a series of comprehensive Timelines detailing the major events significant to the lives, times and events of the most famous people and the Kings of England and Europe. Articles with facts and information about the religion of the times is included in this section of the website including monasticism and life in the religious orders.

Medieval Knights

Medieval times were dominated by the feudal system and the role of the knights and their servants. There are articles on the life of knights, their living conditions, knights clothing, knights weapons, knights training, knights armor and tournaments and jousts. Included in this section are Facts about Knights, the Steps to Knighthood, the lives of the Squires and Pages culminating in the Order of Knighthood Ceremony. The Medieval Knights Code of Chivalry, rules about Courtly Love and Knights Tournaments. Learn about jousting, the History of Jousting, Jousting Terminology and the Jousting Weapons used by Medieval knights.

Crusades in Medieval Times and the Knights Templar

Pilgrimages to Jerusalem were made by people in Medieval Times who had been guaranteed their safety in the city. In 1065 Jerusalem was taken by the Turks and Christians were treated so badly that throughout Christendom people were stirred to fight in holy crusades. This section about Crusades in these times covers the Crusaders, the Cause of the Crusades, the Effects of the Crusades the history of the First, Second, Third and Fourth Crusades. A Middle Ages Timeline of the First Crusade, the Childrens Crusade, the Minor Crusades. A Crusades Timeline, the Kingdom of Jerusalem, the Holy Land Pilgrimage and the End of the Medieval Crusades of the Middle Ages. A great educational resource for students and teachers researching the crusades of the times. This section also provides facts and information about the Templar Knights, the Knights Templar History, Knights Templar Banking, a Knights Templar Timeline the role of the Religious Knights, the Teutonic Knights and the Knights Hospitaller.

Medieval Life and TimesTorture and Punishment

We are all horrified and at the same time fascinated by the subject of Medieval torture. The castles of the times with their dark dungeons increase our growing fascination about torture during the violent times of the Middle Ages. The horrific torture chambers and the various torture devices used during the times are described in this section including the Rack Torture, Scavengers Daughter torture, The Brank or Scold's Bridle torture, Ducking Stool, Torture by Dislocation, Iron Balls Torture, Water Torture, The Boot Torture, Branding and Burning Tortures, Brodequins, Thumbscrews and the Pillory. Different types of execution methods are also described in the Medieval times torture and punishment section including being Burned at the Stake, Execution by Quartering, Execution by the Wheel, and finally the gruesome Execution by being Hanged, Drawn and Quartered.

Medieval Religion

From birth to death, whether you were a peasant, a serf, a noble a lord or a King - life was dominated by the church and Medieval religion. In Europe during the Medieval times the only recognised religion was Christianity, in the form of the Catholic religion. There were various religious institutions, such as monasteries and convents, which are detailed in this section. There were many famous Medieval Saints and there are details of the names of this pious men and women of the Middle Ages. The practises of the Catholic religion were questioned and the beliefs of men such as Martin Luther (1483 - 1546) prompted a new religion called Protestantism.

Medieval Clothing

Medieval clothing and fashion like everything else was dictated by the Pyramid of Power which was the Feudal System. Medieval clothes provided information about the status of the person wearing them and was dictated by strict Sumptuary Laws. This section provides information about the type of clothes and fashions worn during the times. Interesting facts and information about Medieval Clothing are detailed in this section: Sumptuary Laws, History of Fashion in the Times, Fashion, Ladies Dresses, Knights Clothing, Lords Clothing, Peasant Clothing, Kings Clothing, Women's Clothing, Monks Clothing in the Times, Nuns Clothes in Medieval Times, simple peasant dresses and finally the different Hairstyles worn by men and women of the times.

MedievalWomen

The lives ofMedieval women were dependent on their role and status and the men in their families in the times. All Medieval women were expected to be subservient to the men in their family, including their brothers. What were the daily lives of women like and were women's rights during the Medieval times of the Middle Ages? The Medieval Women section includes facts and information about Queens and Princesses. There is a biography containing key dates and events about the lives of famous Noble women such as Matilda of Flanders, Good Queen Maude, Queen Matilda, Queen Matilda of Boulogne, Eleanor of Aquitaine, Queen Berengaria of Navarre, Isabelle of Angouleme, Eleanor of Provence, Eleanor of Castile, Isabella of France, Philippa of Hainault, Mary de Bohun, Catherine of Valois, Margaret of Anjou, Elizabeth Woodville and Anne Neville. The names of many famous Medieval women scatter the Medieval History books and other historical documents - they were mostly queens and princesses. But what about the women who were not of noble birth, who were not queens or princesses? Learn about the mistresses of famous Medieval men. Medival women of the times such as Anna Comnena, Heloise, Hildegard of Bingen, Julian of Norwich, Christine de Pizan, Jane Shore, Alice Perrers, Katherine Swynford and Margery Kempe.

Medieval Kings - Biography and Timeline

What were the duties of Kings in Medieval Times? Short, concise biographies and timelines of the Kings in Medival Times. From 1066 -1154 - The Normans ruled the English after their victory at the Battle of Hastings. There are biographies and timelines of the Norman Kings, and even a Queen, of the Middle Ages including

William the Conqueror timeline and biography

King Henry I

Queen Matilda

King Richard I

King John

King Edward I

King Edward III

King Richard II

King Henry IV

King Henry V King Richard III

MEDIEVAL JOBS

Interesting history, facts and information about the life of the people who lived in England during the Medieval times

The Lord of the Manor was based in the Manor House and from here he conducted the business of the manor. The names of the Medieval jobs of the people who worked on the manors are described as follows:Vassal: A Vassal or Liege was a free man who held land ( a fief ) from a lord to whom he paid homage and swore fealty. A vassal could be a Lord of the Manor but was also directly subservient to a Noble or the King

Bailiff: A Bailiff was a person of some importance who undertook the management of manors

Reeve - A Reeve was a manor official appointed by the lord or elected by the peasants

Serf - A serf was another name for a peasant or tennant.Medieval Serfs were peasants who worked his lord's land and paid him certain dues in return for the use of land, the possession (not the ownership) of which was heritable. The dues were usually in the form of labor on the lord's land. Medieval Serfs were expected to work for approximately 3 days each week on the lord's land.

Peasant or Villein - A peasant or villein was a low status tenant who worked as an agricultural worker or laborer. A peasant or villein usually cultivated 20-40 acres of land

Cottager: A low class peasant with a cottage, but with little or no land who generally worked as a simple laborer

Servant: Servants were house peasants who worked in the lord's manor house, doing the cooking, cleaning, laundering, and other household chores

The Role of a Yeoman

A yeoman owned his own land and often farmed it himself. His land would be equivalent to 30 - 120 acres. A Medieval yeoman was required to be armed and trained with a bow. Wealthy yeoman would be expected to also be trained and armed with a sword, dagger and the longbow. Yeoman were therefore often employed to guard and protector the nobility.

Other Medieval JobsAlthough many people were employed on the Manors and in farming their were also many different jobs and occupations in the towns (also refer toMedieval Guilds) and also in theMedieval castles. These jobs are explained and defined in the following list of Medieval Jobs:

Armorer: A medieval armorer held an important occupation in the medieval workforce. Armor had to be uniquely made to fit its wearer and was considered one of the specialist Medieval Jobs

Apothecary: An apothecary dispensed remedies made from herbs, plants and roots. Medieval physicians were expensive and a priest often held this occupation, often the only recourse for sick, poor people.

Artist: Artists were employed in the later medieval era by kings and nobles. At first an artist painted heraldic designs on early furniture and then it became fashionable for portraits to be painted

Astrologer: An astrologer studied the stars and planets but regarded as a mystical person

Atilliator: The occupation of a castle atilliator was to make crossbows

Bailiff: The occupation of the castle bailiff was to manage the castle estate or farm

Baker: Bread was a daily staple of medieval life, and good bakers were employed by nobles in their castles.

Barber: A barber had many occupations in relation to personal care. Barbers would cut hair but would also serve as dentists, surgeons and blood-letters.

Blacksmith: The blacksmith was one of the most important, albeit lowly, occupations of the medieval era. Blacksmiths forged weapons, sharpened weapons, repaired armor.

Bottler: a bottler had a responsible occupation and was in charge of the bottlery which was intended for storing and dispensing wines and other expensive provisions.

Butler The butler was responsible for the castle cellar and was in charge of large butts of beer. The room in the castle called the buttery was intended for storing and dispensing beverages, especially ale.

Bower or bowyer The bowyer manufactured bows, arrows and crossbows

Candlemaker The candlemaker made candles to light the castle. Candles were supplemented by lighting from torches, lanterns and rush dips. An 11th century candlemaker called Graham Overhill is credited with inventing a candle - clock. A candle was produced with twelve lines on it. When lit at the top of the hour, the candle would burn from line to line at the rate of one hour for each line. The medieval clock!Carpenter The occupation of the carpenter was diverse. Carpenters built furniture, roofing, siege engines and wood panelling. Carpenter: a skilled craftsman who shaped or made things of wood. Carpenters were highly skilled and considered to be elite tradesmenCastellan A castellan was the occupation of the person who had been appointed as custodian, or in charge of, the castleChamberlain The title originated with an officer of a royal household who was responsible for the chamber, which included the administration of the king's household's budget. This occupation was later extended to collecting revenues and paying expensesChancellor: chancellor was a secretary to a noble or royal person

Chaplain The chaplain was responsible for the religious activities of a castle servants and men at arms. The duties might also include that of a clerk and keeping accounts. A priest would usually looked after the spiritual needs and confessions of the nobles and their families

Clerk A clerk was employed to keep accounts

Clothier A clothiers made clothes for the nobles and required having a knowledge of various fine and expensive materials.Constable: A constable was the occupation of the person who had been appointed as custodian, or in charge of, the castle.Cook: A cook was employed in the castle kitchens roasting, broiling, and baking food in the fireplaces and ovens.

Cordwainer : A cordwainer was a shoemaker or cobbler, a craftsman who made shoes

Cottar : A cottar was one of the lowest peasant occupations, undertaken by the old or infirm, who had a series of low duties including swine-herd,, prison guard and menial tasks

Ditcher : The ditcher a labourer who dug castle moats and foundations

Ewerer:The ewerer brought and heated water for the nobles

Fletcher:the fletcher crafted and manufactured bows and the flights of arrows

Gardener: The medieval gardener needed a knowledge of herbs and plants. A gardeners work was critical to the safety and protection of a castle - castle walls had to be kept clear of ivy or anything else that could be used to climb the castle walls and gardeners were expected to dig defensive ditches

Herald or harker :A herald was a knights assistant and an expert advisor on heraldry. The herald (or harker) would declare announcements on behalf of the king or noble to the public. Normally this was done on a given day when the public would assemble at the base of a castle tower or in the town square and the herald would shout out the news

Herbalist A herbalist was usually a member of a religious order such as a monk or friar who would plant and maintain medicinal plants, roots and herbs

Janitor The janitor, or porter, was responsible for the main castle entrance and for the guardrooms. The janitor also insured that no one entered or left the castle without permission

Jester the jester, also referred to as the fool, entertained the court

Keeper of the wardrobe The room in the castle called the wardrobe was intended as a dressing room and storage room for clothes and used by lord of the castle. The keeper of the wardrobe was in charge of the tailors and laundress.

Knight It was the duty of a knight to learn how to fight and so serve their lord according to the code of chivalry. Weapon practise included enhancing skills in the two-handed sword, battle axe, mace, dagger and lance.

Marshal The Marshal was the officer in charge of a household's horses, carts, wagons, containers and the transporting of goods.

Messenger Messengers were lesser diplomats of the lord who carried receipts, letters, and commodities. The occupation of a messenger was often dangerous as if the message delivered was less than favorable the messenger was often the victim of the incurred anger of the recipient leading to the saying "don't kill the messenger". Messengers were eventually made exempt from punishment by law due to the news they delivered.

Minstrel Minstrels provided castle entertainment in the form of singing and playing musical instruments. Minstrels often would record the deeds of heroic knights in songs giving the knight great publicity and establishing respect and additional status

Moneylender Moneylenders were the medieval bankers - also see sections relating to the Knights Templar

Page :The life of a castle page would start at a very young age - seven years old. A page was junior to a squire. It was the duty of a page to wait at table, care for the lord's clothes and assist them in dressing. The page was provided with a uniform of the colours and livery of the lord.

Painter Medieval castles ere highly colorful and the services of painters were often required

Porter The janitor, or porter, was responsible for the main castle entrance and for the guardrooms. The porter also insured that no one entered or left the castle without permission

Physician Physicians were a very highly regarded and respected occupation. Bleeding, lancing and surgical procedures were practised.

Potter Potters were craftsmen of in clay, porcelain and early forms of ceramics. Basically they produced pots for cooking and storage and occasionally worked as sculptors. Potters were members of medieval craft guilds

Reeve The reeve supervised all work on a lord's property. The reeve ensured that everyone began and stopped work on time

Scribe Most scribes came from religious establishments where reading, writing and comprehension skills were learned.

Scullion Scullions were the lowest of kitchen workers whose duties included washing and cleaning the kitchen

Sheriff The sheriff was an important official of county who was responsible for executing judicial duties

Shoemaker A shoemaker or cobbler or cordwainer was a craftsman who made shoes

Spinster Spinster was the name of the occupation given to a woman who earned her living spinning yarn. The spinning wheel was invented during the medieval era. Later the term spinster was used to describe any unmarried womanSteward The steward took care of the castle estate and household administration including the events in the great hall. This occupation was also referred to as a seneschalSquire A squire was junior to a knight. It was the duty of a squire to learn about the code of chivalry, the rules of heraldry, horsemanship and practise the use of weapons. It was also their duty to enter into the social life of the castle and learn courtly etiquette, music and dancing. The squire served in this role for seven years and became a knight at the age of twenty-one. Sometimes knighthood was conferred earlier as the reward for bravery on the battlefield

MEDIEVAL ART

Art during the Middle Ages saw many changes up to the emergence of the early Renaissance period. Early art subjects were initially restricted to the production of Pietistic painting (religious art or Christian art) in the form of illuminated manuscripts, mosaics and fresco paintings in churches. There were no portrait paintings in the art of the Middle Ages. The colors were generally somewhat muted. The subject of Medieval architecture is also covered in this section. The following links provide facts and interesting information about Medieval Art and Architecture and the famous artists of the Middle ages:

MedievalArt

Types of Medieval ArtByzantine ArtRomanesque ArtGothic ArtIlluminated ManuscriptsEarly Christian ArtMeaning of Colors in Christian ArtMedieval ArtistsMedieval Women ArtistsBayeux TapestryBayeux Tapestry ScenesMeaning of Flowers in Christian ArtMeaning of Trees in Christian ArtMedieval Literature

FamousArtists

DonatelloGiottoLeon Battista AlbertiCimabueFilippo BrunelleschiFra AngelicoLorenzo GhibertiHildegard of Bingen

Art and Famous Artists of the Middle Ages

Medieval Architecture

Medieval Architecture styles were called Romanesque and the later style of Architecture was known as the French Style, Perpendicular or more commonly as Gothic architecture. The following dates clarify the different styles of Architecture of the Middle Ages:

Romanesque Architecture - 1066 to 1200 - Norman orRomanesque architectureGothic Architecture - 1200 to 1300 - Early EnglishGothic Architecture( also called Lancet Gothic architecture )

Gothic Architecture - 1300 to 1400 - Decorated style of Gothic Architecture featuringGargoylesPerpendicular Gothic Architecture - 1400 to 1500 - Perpendicular style of Gothic Architecture

Medieval- Gothic and Romanesque Architecture

Medieval ArchitectureMedieval Architecture Glossary of TermsMedieval Castle ArchitectureMedieval ArchitectsGargoylesRomanesque ArchitectureCharacteristics of Romanesque ArchitectureGothic ArchitectureHistory of Gothic ArchitectureGothic Arch

Gothic and Romanesque Architecture

History - Christian Art and Religious iconography

Christian art and religious iconography began, about two centuries after the death of Jesus Christ. Christian art and religious iconography was originally based on the classical art styles and imagery used by the Ancient Greeks and the Ancient Romans. In the period encompassing Medieval art iconography began to be standardised and to relate more closely to the texts found in the Bible.

Medieval Art History - Byzantine Art

The capitol of the Roman Empire was Byzantium which was renamed as Constantinople. The Roman Empire was spit into two sections - the Eastern and Western part of the Roman Empire. The Western part of the Roman Empire disintegrated but the Eastern, or Byzantium Empire, stayed intact. Early Medieval Art reflect the differences between the development of the Catholic religion in the west and the Byzantium Empire of the east. Byzantine Art was the name given to the style of art used in very early years of this era or period. This period was also known as the Dark Ages ( 410 AD - 1066 AD ). The Dark Ages were followed by the Medieval times of the Middle Ages (1066 - 1485) and changes which saw the emergence of the early Renaissance Art. To appreciate the full extent of the changes in Medieval Art and the Early Renaissance it is helpful to understand its fore-runner - Byzantium Art and its effects on art during the Medieval times.

Early Art in what was the Western Empire - Romanesque Art

The Western Empire (Europe) was dominated by warring factions and their quest for conquest and power . Early Medieval Art was initially restricted to the production of Pietistic painting (religious Christian art) in the form of illuminated manuscripts, mosaics and fresco paintings in churches. There were no portrait paintings. The colors were generally muted.

Gothic Art - Advances and Styles

The Later Middle Ages saw the emergence of Gothic Art and major advances of art in Medieval Times. During this period artists broke away from the influences of the Byzantium and Romanesque art style. It developed into Gothic highly visual art. The artists and painters were founders of the movement towards greater realism which culminated in the Renaissance art style.

Advances of Art - the Artists

The advances of art during these times was due to the changes in more liberal religious beliefs and the efforts and the pioneering art styles developed by the artists, sculptors and painters of the period of the Middle Ages. The most important and famous artists and sculptors of the Middle Ages included Donatello, Giotto, Leon Battista Alberti, Cimabue, Filippo Brunelleschi, Fra Angelico and Lorenzo Ghiberti. A short biography and timeline of these artists can be accessed from the above links.

Advances of Art - the Women Artists

The advances of art in relation to women artists was due to the changes in more liberal religious beliefs and the efforts and the pioneering art styles developed by the female artists, illuminators, sculptors and painters. Many women took religious orders during this period and were allowed to work on such projects as creating the most beautiful illuminated manuscripts.

Different Types of Medieval Art

Medieval art increased from the type depicted in Pietistic painting (religious paintings) in the form displayed in illuminated manuscripts, mosaics and fresco paintings in churches. Medieval art included the following art by type:

Illuminated manuscript

Metalwork especially bronze art

Silversmith and Goldsmith and new forms of jewelry

Painting

Fresco

Panel painting

Embroidery and tapestry art such as the Bayeux Tapestry

Ceramic art

Mosaic

Tessera

Sculpture

Engraving

Stained Glass art

Heraldry

MEDIEVAL HISTORY

Medieval Life and Times encompass one of the most exciting and turbulent times in English and European History. The Medieval people of the Middle Ages and Dark Ages were warlike, they sought to conquer new lands and have even been described as barbaric. The Crusades exposed the English and the Europeans to a more refined society and the great Eastern fortresses which influencedMedieval architecture. The elegance of the Far East, with its silks, tapestries, precious stones, perfumes, spices, pearls, and ivory prompted a change in society with a new and unprecedented interest in beautiful objects and elegant manners and new routes forMedieval Trade. But meanwhile theMedieval Battlesfor new territory and power raged on in Medieval History.

Medieval History of Feudalism

The Medieval history of feudalism covers the main European countries. The disintegration of Europe following the departure and power of the Romans slowly led toEuropean Feudalism. From France feudalism spread to the major European countries including Germany, Spain, Italy, Scandinavia, England and the Slavic countries.

Feudalism PyramidFeudal JusticeThe Peasants RevoltMedieval Timelines

A series of comprehensive Medieval Timelines detail the major events significant to the lives and events of famous people and the Kings and Queens of England and Europe. In addition there are are additional timelines including a Timeline of the First Crusade, a Timeline Of Middle Ages Kings Of England, Knights Templar Timeline, Early Middle Ages Timeline and a Late Middle Ages Timeline.

Medieval History TimelineEarly Medieval TimelineLate Medieval TimelineFamous Events in Medieval History with Timelines, Key dates and Events

The History of the Medieval era covers the major historical events which occurred during the period from 1066 - 1485. The History of the Medieval era starts in England with the Battle of Hastings in 1066 which ended the period classified as the Dark Ages. The events in Medieval History continues down the timeline until 1485 which ends the War of the Roses, the start of the Tudor dynasty and the emergence of the Renaissance. The facts and information provided via the Medieval Life and Times website provide access to the most important historical events of the period which are detailed in the pages about the History of Domesday Book, History of Black Death, History of Magna Carta, History of Battle of Hastings, History of Wars of the Roses, History of the One Hundred Years War and the History of Bayeux Tapestry. The History and Key Events of the Middle Ages included:

The History ofBattle of Hastings and the Norman ConquestThe History ofBayeux TapestryThe History ofDoomsday Book( aka Domesday Book )

The History ofMagna CartaThe History ofHundred Years Warbetween England and France

The History ofBlack DeathThe History ofWars of the Rosesand the Battle of Bosworth

The History of theGreat Schism of 1054 and the Great Western SchismThe History of thePeasants RevoltThe Domesday BookWilliam the Conqueror ordered this Norman survey of all the lands and possessions of England in order to assist with the Norman administration of England and impose relevant taxes - it was called the Domesday, or Doomsday, Book. It also enabled William the Conqueror the ability to ensure that all landholders and tenants swore allegiance to him - a major requirement of feudalism or the Feudal System

The Black DeathThe Black Death victims in Medieval Times were terrified of the deadly disease. The plague held a massive mortality rate between 30 and 40%. Victims had no idea what had caused the disease. Neither did the physicians in Medieval Times. Read about the symptoms, treatments, causes and effects of the Black Death in England

The Magna CartaWhat is the Magna Carta? What was the purpose of the Magna Carta? Why was the Magna Carta famous and important to the history of England? The charter is considered to be the beginning of constitutional government in England. The Magna Carta demonstrated that the power of the king could be limited by a written grant. The influence of Magna Carta can be seen in the United States Constitution and the Bill of Rights

The Battle of Hastings

The Battle of Hastings took place on Saturday 14th of October 1066. The leaders of the Battle of Hastings were Duke William of Normandy and King Harold of William. The Normans win the Battle of Hastings and the Norman conquest of England follows. The section detailing the Battle of Hastings has some surprising facts and information about the event and also a comprehensive Battle of Hastings timeline.

The Wars of the RosesThe Wars of the Roses were intermittent civil wars fought by members of the House of Lancaster and the House of York. Both houses were branches of the Plantagenet royal house, tracing their descent from King Edward III. The rivalry between the house of York and the House of Lancaster started when King Richard II was overthrown by his cousin, Henry Bolingbroke, Duke of Lancaster, in 1399. The Wars of the Roses subsequently raged from 1455 - 1485.

The One Hundred Years WarOne of the most important historical events of the Medieval era is the Hundred Years War. The Hundred Years War was fought between between England and France and later Burgundy. What were the key dates of this famous historical event?Joan of Arcwas a major figure in the Hundred Years War. What other famous figures were involved in this historical occasion? There is also a section which details a Battles Timeline of the One Hundred Years War including the famous English victories at the Battle of Crecy and the Battle of Poitiers.

MEDIEVALRELIGION

In Europe during the Medieval times the only recognised religion was Christianity, in the form of the Catholic religion. The lives of the Medieval people of the Middle Ages was dominated by the church. From birth to death, whether a peasant, a serf, a noble a lord or a King - life was dominated by the church and Medieval religion. Various religious institutions, such as monasteries and convents, became both important, rich and powerful. The lives of many Medieval people including various orders of monks and nuns were dedicated to to the Catholic church and religion. This was also a period of great change in the Christian church. Disputes of the Crusades led tothe split between the Eastern and Western Christian Churches, called the Great Schism of 1054.The practises of the Catholic religion were questioned and the beliefs of men such as Martin Luther (1483 - 1546) prompted a new religion called Protestantism which led to a further split in the Christian Church referred to as the Protestant Reformation. This section covers all the important events and Religious Reformers and philosophers who shaped the changes in Medieval religion.

Religion and Philosophy

During the Middle Ages religion as everything. It was not unusual for people to go to church everyday and pray five times a day. People believed that all the good things in life were due to the bounty of god and that the evil events of the times were due to their sins. Medieval religion was extremely important and even the doctors and physicians of the era were also well versed in religion. From birth to death, whether you were a peasant, a serf, a noble a lord or a King - life was dominated by the church and Medieval religion. There were many famous Medieval Saints and there are details of the names of this pious men and women of the Middle Ages. The following links provide and insight to different aspects of the religion and philosophy of the Middle Ages.

Medieval Religion

Christian Religion HistoryHistory of the Catholic ReligionThe Great SchismProtestant ReformationPopes in Medieval TimesMedieval Religious FestivalsMedieval MonksMedieval NunsPilgrimageMedieval MonasteryMedieval ConventMonasticismMedieval Benedictine RuleMedieval Benedictine MonksDaily Life of a Medieval MonkDaily Life of a Medieval NunAnchoressFamous Medieval Saints

Religion and Philosophy

Biographies and Timelines of famous Religious Reformers and Philosophers

A biography and timeline can be found on the famous Medieval Religious Reformers and philosophers in the Medieval Religion section. Click one of the following links for facts and information:

Timelines and Biographies ofFamous Religious Reformers and Philosophers

Jan HusJohn WycliffeWilliam of OckhamAlbertus MagnusMartin LutherPeter the HermitThomas AquinasPeter AbelardErasmusAlbert Magnus

Timelines and Biographies ofFamous Religious Reformers and Philosophers

History of the Catholic Religion

The major historical events in the history of Catholic Religion including the subjects of heresy and the Inquisition and the Great Schism.

The Great Schism

Learn about the Great Schism of 1054 which was the split between the Eastern and Western Christian Churches.

Protestant Reformation The practises of the Catholic religion were questioned during the Reformation and the beliefs of men such as Martin Luther prompted a new religion called Protestantism.

Popes in Medieval TimesThe names and list of Popes who enjoyed great influence and power in the Middle Ages 1066 - 1485.

Religious FestivalsThe Life of people during the Middle ages was dictated by the changes in the season. The different seasons and months of the year were celebrated with Religious Feasts and Festivals which are detailed in this article.

Monks in the Middle AgesLearn about becoming a monk, the vows taken by monks, the Monastery and life of monks and the sexual practises of monks.

Nuns in the Middle AgesAll nuns led lives which were strictly disciplined. Their lives were dedicated to their God and their faith and was a renunciation of worldly fashion and esteem.

PilgrimageThe Definition of a Pilgrimage, the concept of Pilgrimage, Christian Pilgrimage and Destinations including Pilgrimage to Walsingham, St. Peter's Basilica, Loudres and Canterbury. Christian Pilgrimage and the Crusades. The Canterbury Tales by Geoffrey Chaucer and the Pilgrimage of Grace.

Middle Ages MonasteryThe first type of Medieval monastery adhered to the Benedictine Rule, established by St. Benedict in 529AD. The major orders of Medieval monks were the Benedictines, the Cistercians and the Carthusians. The layout, buildings and rooms in a monastery.

Medieval ConventThe principal buildings of a large convent were grouped around an inner court, called a cloister and included a church, a refectory, or dining room, with the kitchen and buttery near it and a dormitory where the nuns slept.

MonasticismThe concept of Monasticism centred around withdrawing from the world, from its temptations and its transitory pleasures to a life of solitude, prayer, and religious contemplation.

Benedictine RuleThe three vows of poverty, chastity and obedience were the basis of the rule of St. Benedict.

Benedictine MonksThe Benedictine monks lived under strict discipline. They could not own any property; they could not go beyond the monastery walls without the abbot's consent; they could not even receive letters from home

AnchoressRead about the strange life of an Anchoress who was a deeply religious woman who chose to live a solitary life in confined quarters called an an anchorage or and anchorhold, which usually consisted of a single small cell.

Religion and Philosophy ofMartin LutherMartin Luther- The short biography of Martin Luther an important Medieval figure who was famous as a Theologian, Philosopher and religious reformer who founded the Lutheran religion.

Religion and Philosophy ofAlbert MagnusAlbert Magnus- The short biography of Albert Magnus an important Medieval figure who was famous as a German philosopher and theologian.

Religion and Philosophy of Thomas AquinasThomas Aquinas -A short biography of Thomas Aquinas with key dates about the life story of an important Medieval figure who was famous as one of the greatest theologians of the Catholic Church.

Religion and Philosophy of Peter the Hermit

Peter the Hermit -A short biography of Peter the Hermit with key dates about the life story of an important Medieval figure who was famous for leading the People's Crusade - The First Crusade 1096 - 1099.

Religion and Philosophy of Jan HusJan Hus- The short biography of Jan Hus an important Medieval figure who was famous as a philosopher, cleric and religious reformer who attracted followers called the Hussites.

Religion and Philosophy of John WycliffeJohn Wycliffe- The short biography of John Wycliffe an important Medieval figure who was famous as a Medieval religious reformer and the first person to translate the Bible into English.

Religion and Philosophy of William of OckhamWilliam of Ockham- The short biography of William of Ockham an important Medieval figure who was famous as a Medieval Franciscan friar and scholastic philosopher.

Religion and Philosophy of Peter AbelardPeter Abelard- The short biography of Peter Abelard an important Medieval figure who was famous as a Medieval scholar, philosopher and his tragic love affair with the beautiful Heloise.

Famous Religious Reformers and Philosophers ErasmusErasmus- The short biography of Erasmus an important Medieval figure who was famous as a Humanist and Religious Reformer.

Religion and PhilosophyThe Medieval Life and Times website provides interesting facts, history and information about Medieval religion and philosophy which scatter the Medieval History books. The Medieval Times Sitemap provides full details of all of the information and facts about the fascinating subject of the lives of the people who lived during the historical period of the Middle Ages. The content of this section on the Christian religion and Medieval life and times provides free educational details, facts and information for reference and research for schools, colleges and homework for history courses and history coursework.

MEDIEVAL ENGLAND

What was life really like in Medieval England? The life of all the classes in England was dominated by the feudal system. What was English Village life and general Daily Life in England like during these turbulent times? Whatwas life like for the Lord of the Manor and the peasants and serfs who worked on the manors of England?Medieval England - The Lady and Lord of the ManorThe emergence of Manorialism in England is described including sections on Manorialism, Manors, the Lord of the Manor, the Lady of the Manor and a full description of a Manor House in England during the Medival times. Facts and interesting information about the people who lived under the system of feudalism and manorialism. The land owned by the lord of the manor varied in size but were typically between 1200 - 1800 acres. The land belonging to the 'Lord of the Manor' in England was called his "demesne," or domain which he required to support himself and his retinue. The lady of the manor in England had to take over the running of the manor when her husband was absent. She was a figure of authority. And her word was literally law when her husband was absent. The lives and times of the following people who lived in England - the Vassals and the Oath of Fealty, the Fief, Serfs, Peasants and the Villein. What free time did the people of England get? The Religious Festivals provided some relief from the day to day drudge of everyday life with Medival Holidays in England. The methods of Farming in England was dictated by the Feudalism and the Manor system or Manorialism. A fief was a vassal's source of income, granted to him by his lord in exchange for his services.

FeudalismLife in Englandwas dominated by the feudal system. Learn about feudalism during the times in sections on the Feudalism Pyramid, Feudal Justice and the eventual Decline of Feudalism. The most important and interesting aspects and facts about feudalism in times have been comprehensively detailed including sections on the Feudalism Pyramid, Medival Feudalism, European Feudalism, the Feudal System, Feudal Justice and the Decline of Feudalism. For additional facts and information please refer toFeudalism Pyramid,Feudal JusticeandEuropean Feudalism.

Medieval England Jobs

The names of the jobs of the people including the peasants and serfs who worked on the manors are described in this section together with the Medival jobs necessary for the efficient running of the castles and of the jobs and occupations found in the towns and cities of England.

Medieval England FarmingA manor varied in size, according to the wealth of its lord. In England on average six hundred acres represented the extent of an average estate. Farming in England during this period was therefore important. Of the arable land of the manor the lord reserved as much as he needed for his own use. The lord's land was called his "demesne," or domain. The rest of the land he allotted to the peasants who were his tenants.Medieval England - The GuildsThe terrible Black Death saw the move of peasants from the country to the towns and cities of England. The Guilds controlled the way in which trade was conducted in the town. The members of the Guilds also became involved with civic duties and were appointed to important and influential positions in the community.

Medieval EnglandThe Medieval Life and Times website provides interesting facts, history and information about great people and important events in history including life in England which scatter the History books. The Sitemap provides full details of all of the information and facts about the fascinating subject of the lives of the people who lived during the historical period of the Middle Ages. The content of these articles on England during this turbulent era provide free educational details, facts and information for reference and research for schools, colleges and homework for history courses and history coursework.The Black Death: Bubonic Plague

In the early 1330s an outbreak of deadly bubonic plague occurred in China. The bubonic plague mainly affects rodents, but fleas can transmit the disease to people. Once people are infected, they infect others very rapidly. Plague causes fever and a painful swelling of the lymph glands called buboes, which is how it gets its name. The disease also causes spots on the skin that are red at first and then turn black.

Since China was one of the busiest of the world's trading nations, it was only a matter of time before the outbreak of plague in China spread to western Asia and Europe. In October of 1347, several Italian merchant ships returned from a trip to the Black Sea, one of the key links in trade with China. When the ships docked in Sicily, many of those on board were already dying of plague. Within days the disease spread to the city and the surrounding countryside. An eyewitness tells what happened:

"Realizing what a deadly disaster had come to them, the people quickly drove the Italians from their city. But the disease remained, and soon death was everywhere. Fathers abandoned their sick sons. Lawyers refused to come and make out wills for the dying. Friars and nuns were left to care for the sick, and monasteries and convents were soon deserted, as they were stricken, too. Bodies were left in empty houses, and there was no one to give them a Christian burial."

The disease struck and killed people with terrible speed. The Italian writer Boccaccio said its victims often

"ate lunch with their friends and dinner with their ancestors in paradise."

By the following August, the plague had spread as far north as England, where people called it "The Black Death" because of the black spots it produced on the skin. A terrible killer was loose across Europe, and Medieval medicine had nothing to combat it.

In winter the disease seemed to disappear, but only because fleas--which were now helping to carry it from person to person--are dormant then. Each spring, the plague attacked again, killing new victims. After five years 25 million people were dead--one-third of Europe's people.Even when the worst was over, smaller outbreaks continued, not just for years, but for centuries. The survivors lived in constant fear of the plague's return, and the disease did not disappear until the 1600s.

Medieval society never recovered from the results of the plague. So many people had died that there were serious labor shortages all over Europe. This led workers to demand higher wages, but landlords refused those demands. By the end of the 1300s peasant revolts broke out in England, France, Belgium and Italy.

The disease took its toll on the church as well. People throughout Christendom had prayed devoutly for deliverance from the plague. Why hadn't those prayers been answered? A new period of political turmoil and philosophical questioning lay ahead.