Medieval History Mysteries Case Studies

The period from the end of the ancient period to the beginning of the modern period (c.650 BCE – 1750 CE) was when major societies around the world came into contact with each other. Social, economic, religious and political beliefs were often challenged and significantly changed. It was the period when the modern world began to take shape.

This was a time when religion was important along with the key features of the medieval world such as feudalism, trade routes, voyages of discovery, contacts and conflicts between different cultures and groups, as well as the emergence of significant ideas that shaped the early modern world during and after this period.

The following interactive units will challenge students to solve some of the mysteries of the past and help them develop an understanding the context and chronology to the end of the ancient world in Europe as well as broad patterns of continuity and change over time.

The following inquiry questions provide a framework for developing students’ knowledge, understanding and skills.

• How did societies change from the end of the ancient period to the beginning of the modern age?
• What key beliefs and values emerged, and how did they influence societies?
• What were the causes and effects of contact between societies in this period?
• What were the perspectives of people from the time?
• Which significant people, groups and ideas from this period have influenced and shaped the world today?
• How and why have historians interpreted this period differently?