A narrative history of the origins of Western civilization argues that Europe was transformed in the tenth century from a continent rife with violence and ignorance to a continent on the rise.

Capturing the vigor and vitality of medieval times in an interesting and engaging manner, Strayer gives a vivid interpretation of the significance of medieval civilization, not of medieval history. This essay focuses on two topics: First is the organization on a specialization of society and the cooperation of its people. Second is their shared ideals and beliefs. This important work illuminates how the intriguing activities of the Middle Ages have nourished our present-day civilization.

This comprehensive survey of the history of the Church in Western Europe, as institution and spiritual body.

First ed. by S. Painter published in 1953 under title: A history of the Middle Ages, 284-1500. Includes bibliographical references and index.

11 essays from both historians and archaeologists achieve a re-reading of a the tenth century, which has been central to the interpretation of the historical development of Europe over the past decade.