Lecture Notes: European History (5th-12th Centuries)

Overview

• Transition from Byzantium to Europe
• Setting the tone for Chapter 7: Gothic period
• Understanding Europe's historical context amidst Byzantium developments

Key Historical Periods

1. Barbarian Period (5th-8th Centuries)

   • Marked by migration of tribes like the Visigoths, Franks, Vandals, Huns, etc.
   • Europe fractured; Roman Empire under siege
   • Tribes from Northern Europe (Scandinavia, Germany, etc.) bring their cultures
   • Warfare dominated; tribes waged wars for territorial control

2. Carolingian Period (9th-10th Centuries)

   • Emergence and consolidation under Charlemagne
   • Development of the feudal system: rights and duties in exchange for services
   • Introduction of chainmail as armor
   • Crusades began, aiming to expand Christianity (though corrupt)

3. Romanesque Period (11th-12th Centuries)

   • Rise of the Catholic Church's power
   • Influences from east and west due to Crusades
   • Introduction of monetary economy over barter
   • More fitted clothing reflecting wealth

Cultural and Social Aspects

• Barbarian Tribes: Hunters and farmers, polytheistic, eventually influenced by Christianity
• Fashion:
  • Simple garments (tunics, mantels), primarily wool/leather
  • Utilitarian fashion, focus on warmth and practicality
  • Notable garments: long ships, Viking fibula, terry cloth-like garments

Development of Costume

• Barbarian Period Costume:

  • Simple tunics, trousers, war-utility focus
  • Introduction of weaving techniques for warmth
  • Use of natural wool colors

• Carolingian and Romanesque Costume:

  • Increased use of color and embellishments
  • Introduction of fitted garments and layering
  • Fibula and belt decorations
  • Women's Fashion:
    • Bliaut: A fitted gown, wide sleeves, layered tunics
    • Headrails and wimples introduced

Architectural and Artistic Influence

• Illuminated Manuscripts: Books with detailed images, important for costume documentation
• Bayeux Tapestry: Depicts Norman Conquest, key example of storytelling through embroidery

Notable Figures

• Charlemagne: Important for unifying regions and establishing feudal system

Significant Concepts and Terms

• Feudal System: Social structure based on land in exchange for military service
• Chainmail: Protective armor innovation
• Illuminated Manuscripts: Illustrated texts providing historical insights
• Wimples and Headrails: Early head coverings; significant in women's fashion

Impact of the Crusades

• Not peaceful; focused on territorial expansion
• Introduction of east-west trade, influencing European culture and economy

Key Takeaways

• The period from the 5th to 12th centuries was marked by significant cultural, political, and social transformations in Europe.
• The migration and settlement of various tribes set the stage for modern European cultural and political landscapes.
• The transition from the Roman Empire to the rise of feudalism and the influence of the Catholic Church shaped European history during this era.