Medieval Europe

This episode of History 102 explores the European Middle Ages, its misunderstood aspects, technological and social advancements, and critical events. WhatifAltHist creator Rudyard Lynch and Erik Torenberg discover how the seemingly "dark" medieval era set the stage for the scientific revolution, the age of exploration, and the rise of modern Europe. 🔥 Apply to join over 400 founders and Execs in the Turpentine Network: https://hmplogxqz0y.typeform.com/to/JCkphVqj – SPONSOR: BEEHIIV | BABBEL Head to Beehiiv, the newsletter platform built for growth, to power your own. Connect with premium brands, scale your audience, and deliver a beautiful UX that stands out in an inbox. 🐝 to https://Beehiiv.com and use code “MOZ” for 20% off your first three months 🌐 Ready to achieve your 2024 goals? Start learning a new language with Babbel in just three weeks. Enjoy app lessons, live classes, and podcasts designed for real-world conversations. Get up to 60% off at babbel.com/torenberg This show is produced by Turpentine: a network of podcasts, newsletters, and more, covering technology, business, and culture — all from the perspective of industry insiders and experts. We’re launching new shows every week, and we’re looking for industry-leading sponsors — if you think that might be you and your company, email us at [email protected]. – RECOMMENDED PODCAST: Patrick McKenzie (@patio11) talks to experts who understand the complicated but not unknowable systems we rely on. You might be surprised at how quickly Patrick and his guests can put you in the top 1% of understanding for stock trading, tech hiring, and more. Spotify Apple – FOLLOW ON X: @whatifalthist (Rudyard) @eriktorenberg (Erik) @TurpentineMedia – TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Intro (00:23) Setting the Stage: The European Middle Ages (03:58) Misconceptions About the Middle Ages (05:29) The High Middle Ages: Society and Innovations (14:12) Feudalism and Social Structures (28:34) Sponsor: Beehiiv | Babbel (30:17) Political Dynamics in Medieval Europe (41:10) The Decline of the Middle Ages (44:39) The Black Death and Its Aftermath (47:53) Legacy of the Middle Ages (1:02:29) Conclusion and Book Recommendations (1:03:51) Wrap -- Recommended Books: The Rise of the West: A History of the Human Community by William H. McNeill A Short History of the Middle Ages by Barbara Rosenwein  The Time Traveler's Guide to Medieval England: A Handbook for Visitors to the Fourteenth Century by Ian Mortimer A Secular Age by Charles Taylor Europe Emerges: Transition Toward an Industrial World-Wide Society, 600-1750 by Robert L. Reynolds