Unit 2: Middle Ages & Medieval Society
Unit 2 covers the era in European history after the fall of the Roman Empire. In the East, the Byzantine Empire was a wealthy and powerful center for trade. During the reign of Emperor Justinian, the Byzantines developed an important law code (the Justinian Code), extended its territory, promoted learning, and preserved Greco-Roman culture. Differences between Christians in Eastern and Western Europe divided the Christian Church into Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox denominations. In sharp contrast to the Byzantine Empire, Western Europe descended into the Middle Ages. There was little trade, learning, or cultural achievements during these “Dark Ages.” Society was controlled by feudal system in which peasants worked for noble lords in exchange for protection and access to farm land. The Catholic Church played an important role as a unifying force that guided peoples’ daily lives.
Unit 2 covers the era in European history after the fall of the Roman Empire. In the East, the Byzantine Empire was a wealthy and powerful center for trade. During the reign of Emperor Justinian, the Byzantines developed an important law code (the Justinian Code), extended its territory, promoted learning, and preserved Greco-Roman culture. Differences between Christians in Eastern and Western Europe divided the Christian Church into Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox denominations. In sharp contrast to the Byzantine Empire, Western Europe descended into the Middle Ages. There was little trade, learning, or cultural achievements during these “Dark Ages.” Society was controlled by feudal system in which peasants worked for noble lords in exchange for protection and access to farm land. The Catholic Church played an important role as a unifying force that guided peoples’ daily lives.