The period covered by this absorbing resource embraces the thousand-year span, from 500 to 1500, conventionally referred to as the Middle Ages. This span begins with the fall of the Western Roman Empire in Europe and encompasses the rise of Islam in Arabia and the full flowering of Mayan civilization in Central America two centuries later. The age ends with the Ottoman Empire at the height of its power, the impact of Renaissance culture being felt all over Europe, the establishment of trade routes that link Europe, Africa, India, and East Asia, and the Spanish making the first voyages of exploration and discovery to the New World.

FEATURES OF THIS RESOURCE:

• 253 articles
• Full-color photographs, illustrations, and maps
• Chronologies
• Articles include:
  • Topic summary
  • Time line
  • Feature boxes
  • Cross references
• Articles cover:
  • People
  • Dynasties
  • Civilizations and Peoples
  • Places
  • Science and technology
  • Art and culture
  • History, law, and literature
  • Philosophy and religion
  • Cross-cultural topics
• Further readings and research
• Glossary

The combination of broadly and narrowly defined topics present in Exploring the Middle Ages allows the reader to see both the epic sweep of historical currents and the accomplishments of remarkable individuals. Cross-cultural articles offer perspectives on topics common to many civilizations: calendars and clocks, education, festivals, games, medicine and healing, science, taxes, trade, and many others.

Articles whose content covers a broad time span are supported by a chronology of key events. Articles that treat a specific geographical area, large or small, include a detailed map of the region in question.

The value of this reference resource lies in its wide-ranging, thought-provoking articles that engage all aspects of life in all parts of the world and illuminate the varied circumstances of many different individuals, peoples, and civilizations during the medieval millennium. The art, photographs, and maps that accompany the articles provide essential context for the information contained here and contribute greatly to an understanding of this period.