Medieval Synthesis Question

The Medieval period was the beginning of new culture and ideals for the people in Europe. This culture was built upon the growth of the middle class, which dismantled a lot of the influence that the nobles and kings possessed. The success of the middle class was a result of the crusades facilitating relations with other regions and expanding trade options. With the collaboration of other countries, the merchants were able to trade a variety of wanted luxuries and build their own sphere of influence. Powerful families and merchants became self sustaining powers that only felt threatened by other powerful powers and competition. This era became corrupted by these families and “corporations.”

However, this period gave a higher appreciation to the arts and craftsmanship. With the variety of trade coming in and the abundance of new product desired by the people, merchants required new and more specialized workers. For example, masonry was the highest paid and most respected profession to have because the expansions of towns needed the construction of more cathedrals, hospitals, universities, castles, and guildhalls. In addition, the massive amounts of wealth allowed for people to afford many luxuries, which promoted the arts and theater. Unfortunately, the theater showed the lack of knowledge of history during that period. Although, the Medieval times were shrouded by conflicts between rival merchants and families, the period brought new wealth and culture into the world.