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What Were the Middle Ages? — Reading Comprehension

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This engaging world history reading passage introduces students to the Middle Ages, the period in European history between 500 and 1500 CE. The passage explains how the fall of the Western Roman Empire led to new kingdoms, the rise of feudalism, the role of the Catholic Church, and the daily lives of peasants, nobles, and knights. Students will explore primary and archaeological sources, social hierarchy, and cause-and-effect relationships that shaped medieval society. The passage is aligned to CA HSS 6.6 and TEKS 113.18 social studies standards, as well as CCSS RI.6.3, and includes a glossary, graphic organizers, comprehension quiz, and writing activities. Also features a Spanish translation and read aloud audio to support diverse learners.

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KellsFol130rIncipitMark — "Kells Fol 130r Incipit Mark" / Wikimedia Commons.

The Middle Ages was a period of European history that lasted from about 500 to 1500 CE. This era began after the fall of the Western Roman Empire and ended with the start of the Renaissance. During these thousand years, Europe experienced major changes in politics, society, and daily life.

One of the most important features of the Middle Ages was the feudal system. This system organized society into different levels, or a hierarchy. At the top were kings and powerful nobles who owned large lands called manors. Below them were knights, who served nobles as warriors. At the very bottom were peasants and serfs, who worked the land but had few rights. This structure helped maintain order, but it also meant most people had hard lives with few chances to change their position.

The Catholic Church played a central role in medieval Europe. Almost everyone was Christian, and the Church influenced every part of life, from education to government. Monasteries, where monks lived and studied, helped preserve ancient texts. For example, the Book of Kells, an illuminated manuscript created by monks in Ireland around 800 CE, is still admired today for its art and beauty. Cathedrals, such as Notre Dame in Paris, were built to honor God and became centers of community life. Archaeological discoveries, like the remains of medieval villages in England, reveal the daily routines of peasants, including farming, cooking, and religious festivals.

Warfare and defense were constant concerns. Castles were built across Europe to protect lands and people. Knights trained for years to become skilled fighters and followed a code called chivalry, which valued bravery, loyalty, and honor. However, not all was war. Trade grew, towns developed, and new ideas spread. The Black Death, a disease that struck in the mid-1300s, caused massive population loss and changed society. Despite hardships, some traditions and institutions, like the Catholic Church and local languages, continued across generations.

The Middle Ages ended as new ideas and technologies led to the Renaissance, a period of renewed learning and creativity. The changes of the Middle Ages shaped the foundations of modern Europe, from government to language and law.

This study of the Middle Ages helps us understand how societies adapt and change through challenges, and connects to broader themes in world history, such as cultural exchange and the rise of civilizations.

Interesting Fact: The word "medieval" comes from the Latin "medium aevum," which means "the middle age."

When did the Middle Ages begin?

After fall of RomeAfter the RenaissanceDuring the Roman EmpireIn 2000 CE

Who was at the top of feudal society?

Kings and noblesPeasantsSerfsMerchants

What role did the Catholic Church play?

Central roleNo influenceOnly militaryOnly farming

What was the Book of Kells?

An illuminated manuscriptA castleA battleA disease

How did the Black Death affect society?

Caused population lossBuilt castlesSpread ChristianityStarted Renaissance

Why were castles built?