Middle Ages

The period of European history between ancient and modern times. The Middle Ages began with the Fall of Rome in the fifth century and ended with the Renaissance . The Middle Ages are associated with many beliefs and practices that now seem out of date, such as chivalry , feudalism , the Inquisition , the belief that the sun revolves around the Earth , and a host of popular superstitions. The early Middle Ages are even sometimes called the Dark Ages . The Middle Ages, however, especially in later years, also saw many notable human achievements. Among these were the building of modern nations, such as England and France ; increasingly sophisticated and expanded trade; a great advancement of technique in philosophy and theology ; some remarkable works of literature ( see The Canterbury Tales, The Divine Comedy); and the building of magnificent churches ( see Chartres and Notre Dame de Paris ).