Mediaeval Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฐ
mediaeval
[หmidiหiหvษl ]
Definition
historical period
Mediaeval refers to the period in European history from roughly the 5th to the late 15th century, commonly known as the Middle Ages. This era is characterized by feudalism, the influence of the Catholic Church, and a lack of centralized government, particularly in the earlier centuries. The term can also be used to describe things related to this period, such as art, literature, and architecture.
Synonyms
Middle Ages, feudal, medieval.
Examples of usage
- The mediaeval architecture of the cathedral is stunning.
- Many mediaeval manuscripts have been preserved in libraries.
- Knights were prominent figures in mediaeval society.
- Mediaeval warfare often involved sieges and battles.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Cultural Impact
- Mediaeval times inspired countless books and movies, with themes of chivalry, adventure, and magic, from 'King Arthur' tales to 'The Lord of the Rings.'
- The architecture of the time, like Gothic cathedrals, remains iconic and influences modern buildings today.
- Folk music and traditional stories from the mediaeval period contributed significantly to modern genres in entertainment.
Art and Literature
- The period saw the rise of illuminated manuscripts, which were beautifully decorated books created by hand.
- Notable works like 'The Divine Comedy' by Dante and Geoffrey Chaucer's 'The Canterbury Tales' flourished during these centuries.
- Mediaeval art often depicted religious themes, influencing the development of later artistic movements.
Science and Technology
- Mediaeval scholars preserved and translated ancient texts, helping to keep knowledge alive during the 'Dark Ages.'
- The period also saw innovations such as the mechanical clock and advances in agricultural methods, including the three-field system.
- Universities were established, like those in Bologna and Oxford, marking the foundation of higher education in Europe.
Social Structure
- Feudalism was the dominant social system, where lords owned land and vassals worked it in exchange for protection.
- The role of women varied widely, from peasant wives to influential queens, showcasing diverse experiences during the era.
- Knights followed a code of chivalry, which emphasized bravery, honor, and respect for women, shaping many societal values.
Origin of 'mediaeval'
Main points about word origin
- The term originates from the Latin 'medium aevum', which means 'the middle ages'.
- In the early 19th century, the words 'medieval' and 'mediaeval' started to be used as a way to describe this historical period.
- Different languages have their own versions, like 'mรฉdiรฉval' in French and 'medieval' in Spanish.
The term 'mediaeval' (or 'medieval') is derived from the Latin 'medium aevum', which means 'the middle age'. It emerged as a description of the period between the fall of the Western Roman Empire in the 5th century and the beginning of the Renaissance in the 15th century. The concept of the Middle Ages arose during the Renaissance as a way to contrast the classical antiquity and the rebirth of art and culture that they experienced. The term has since been adopted into various languages, although the exact nuances can vary. In English, it has often been used in historical studies, literature, and art to signify a time marked by certain social, cultural, and political characteristics, such as chivalry, feudalism, and ecclesiastical influence.