What is Middle Ages?
The Middle Ages is the period between the Fall of Rome and the Renaissance, which spans from roughly 476 AD to 1600 AD. This era in European history is divided into three smaller periods by historians: the Early Middle Ages, the High Middle Ages, and the Late Middle Ages. Events during this time include the fall of the Roman Empire, the invasion of the Romans by the Germans, and several other invasions. The High Middle Ages began around 1000 AD, with the formation of England, France, and Germany around 1066 after the Norman Conquest. The Late Middle Ages saw the Hundred Years’ War between England and France.
What is Dark Ages?
The Dark Ages refers to the decline of the Roman Empire and its impact on Europe. This period, which is also known as the Early Middle Ages, saw setbacks in economic and cultural development in Europe and is generally fixed from 400 AD to 1000 AD by historians. The term “Dark Ages” carries the meaning “a period of supposed unenlightenment.”
Key Takeaways
- Middle Ages refers to the period from 5th to 15th century, between the Fall of Rome and the Renaissance.
- Dark Ages is the Early Middle Ages, fixed from 400 AD to 1000 AD by historians, and is characterized by a setback in economic and cultural development in Europe.
- Both periods belong to European history, with the Middle Ages also known as Medieval Ages, and are divided into the Early Middle Ages, High Middle Ages, and Late Middle Ages.
