The Middle ages is often thought of as a great time of intrepid knights, benevolent kings, and massive castles. Although, this isn’t entirely true. Beginning with the collapse and downfall of the vast Western Roman Empire in the 400s, this era was not an excellent time for Europe. Different tenacious and vicious barbarian tribes savagely swept through Europe and took hold and desecrated most of the continent. The stunned civilians had to flee in terror. Unfortunately, the barbarians were far from pleasant and had no interest in the high culture of Rome. Because of the lack of learning and culture, this time is called the Dark Ages. Knights and kings didn’t appear until later in the period around the 900s. Even then, most people were lowly and fetid peasants who lived in dilapidated houses and worked all day for the rich noblemen. Life in the Middle Ages was unpleasant, and Roman culture was almost forgotten.
Gabriel, You are certainly correct that life was awful in the Middle Ages. Reading the paper or looking at the news makes me feel sometimes that we haven’t come very far.
But this really isn’t true. There are more educated people, goods and services that make our lives easier are generally available. For the people who save their hard-earned money the options and opportunities abound.
Of course there is an awful lot of work to be done. Not just around the world but right here in America. One thing we can never forget (because they won’t let us) is there are very evil people EVERYWHERE! The thing that keeps us going is there are good people EVERYWHERE. Trouble is they often don’t get the opportunity to be heard.
There’s a wonderful show that we download. It’s called “Cadfael”. He was a monk and an intellectual during the 10th century. Great show because the good guys always win.
I know he can be a grouch but Papa is a good man and so is your Dad. ????