Medieval Europe Many great Historians of European history identify the years 500-1500 the Middle Ages or the Medieval Period. The word medieval came about when early scholars combined the two Latin words medium (middle) and aevum (age), which means the transition between ancient and modern times. The first 500 years of this period are known as the Early Middle Ages or the Dark Ages. They were called the Dark Ages because the level of learning and …showed first 75 words of 1385 total…

…showed last 75 words of 1385 total…Western culture and laid the basis for modern scholarship by preserving and transmitting the learning of the ancient world. Many characteristics of modern Western civilization arose during the Middle Ages. The medieval history of Europe's great cities can still be seen in great cathedrals. Modern labor unions and institutions of higher learning are related to medieval guilds and universities. The Middle Ages played a great role in making the world the way it is today.