The European Middle Ages: The Rise and Demise of a Civilization, 400-1500

Explore the history of Europe from the end of the western half of the Roman Empire to the eve of the Reformation. This course will begin by examining the aftermath of the Roman Empire in Europe, including the rise and collapse of the Carolingian Monarchy, the effects of the advent of Islam and the Arab conquests, the foundations of papal power, monasticism, and feudalism. We then will look to answer the questions of how the economy, trade, and cities recovered; why English and French monarchs succeeded in building strong states, while German monarchs failed; and how the Crusades led to the apogee of papal power. Finally, we will discuss medieval contributions to religion, art, philosophy, and architecture, as well as the events that led to the decline and collapse of medieval Europe.

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